About the project
Using light to remotely control chiroptical properties represents an exciting new avenue to create advanced communication technologies. This project will develop fundamental new supramolecular photoswitching technologies based on mechanically interlocked molecules with a diverse application space, and will include training in organic synthesis, photophysical analysis and self-assembly.
Photoswitches are molecules which undergo reversible reactions in response to light, enabling the remote control of matter at the nanoscopic scale. Chiroptic outputs, namely circular dichroism and circularly polarised luminescence, can be modulated by appropriately functionalised photoswitches.
These are foundational to the development of variety of new technology areas, including optical computing, advanced sensing and communications.
This project will use mechanically interlocked molecules to deliver a fundamentally new class of chiroptic switch, building upon designs recently published by our group (for reference, Mechanically Interlocked Indigo Photoswitches and ‘Click’-able hemiindigo triazole photoswitches with switchable fluorescence).
You will synthesise a series of mechanically interlocked photoswitches, and will be measure their photophysical properties using a combination of spectroscopies. With successful design criteria in place, these will be adapted to use non-covalent interactions between the components of the mechanically interlocked molecules to drive chiral conformations and thus switchable chiroptic response.
The successful candidate will receive training in:
- complex organic synthesis and associated analysis
- photophysical characterisation
- supramolecular binding studies
We welcome applicants with a degree in Chemistry and an interest in applying chemistry to real-world defence and security challenges. Familiarity with, or experience in, organic synthesis would be preferred, but specialist experience across all areas of the project is not expected. We welcome applicants who are interested in developing new skills and engaging with partners and collaborators.
The Williams group hosts researchers from a range of backgrounds working on varied projects, and prides itself on offering a supportive and welcoming environment.
For more information, please visit the Williams group website.
