Researcher Summary
We are broadly interested in the synthesis of new and interesting organic molecules, particularly focusing on colossal aromatic molecules. Such compounds are intrinsically interesting as materials, but are also being investigated for their ability to form novel coordination and organometallic supramolecular assemblies. The preparation of such systems requires the use of modern organic synthetic techniques, including developing new reactions. The formation of new and interesting materials is the ultimate goal. These are subsequently examined for their chemical, physical and properties.
We are currently working on the following projects:
~ The synthesis of large aromatic molecules with novel electronic and photo-chemical behavior.
~ Controlling intermolecular interactions is supramolecular assemblies.
~ The preparation and investigation of asymmetric catalysts using propeller based chirality.
~ Anion transporters for therapeutic applications.nic reactions.
~ The development of X-ray charge density analysis at the University of Canterbury.