[en] Here, we present a general optimization-based framework for (i) ab initio and experimental data driven mechanistic modeling and (ii) optimal catalyst design of heterogeneous catalytic systems. Both cases are formulated as a nonlinear optimization problem that is subject to a mean-field microkinetic model and thermodynamic consistency requirements as constraints, for which we seek sparse solutions through a ridge (L₂ regularization) penalty. The solution procedure involves an iterative sequence of forward simulation of the differential algebraic equations pertaining to the microkinetic model using a numerical tool capable of handling stiff systems, sensitivity calculations using linear algebra, and gradient-based nonlinear optimization. A multistart approach is used to explore the solution space, and a hierarchical clustering procedure is implemented for statistically classifying potentially competing solutions. An example of methanol synthesis through hydrogenation of CO and CO₂ on a Cu-based catalyst is used to illustrate the framework. The framework is fast, is robust, and can be used to comprehensively explore the model solution and design space of any heterogeneous catalytic system.