Structural chemistry and chemical dynamics

The rational design of functional molecules and novel materials requires a fundamental understanding of structures on a range of different length scales. Structural chemistry allows the tailored design, synthesis and characterisation of materials with novel magnetic, electronic and (photo)catalytic properties.  It is also essential to  probe the dynamics of molecular processes, reactivity and structural evolution. Experimental and theoretical investigations of chemical dynamics provide insight into crystal engineering, geological processes and supramolecular self-assembly.

Research in this theme utilises a range of characterisation techniques including NMR, EPR, diffraction (X-ray, electron and neutron), laser spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, surface analysis (STM, AFM, NEXAFS, XPS) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy complemented by state-of-the-art computational methods. These tools are capable of high spatial and/or temporal resolution allowing the precise characterisation of the structure of biological molecules and novel materials and the dynamics of molecular transformations and materials processing.

Research in this area aims to link the function of molecules and materials with structure on a range of length scales. Rational design of new materials with novel properties is targeted with applications in areas such as fuel cells, batteries, catalysis, solar cells, magnetic materials. Research into the dynamics of chemical processes contributes crucially in optimising charge transport in materials and photocatalysis, in self-assembly at surfaces, into the mechanisms of enzyme-catalysed reactions, and into the crystallisation of pharmaceuticals.

At EaStCHEM, our particular research strengths in Structural Chemistry and Chemical Dynamics are in the areas of:

  • In-situ and operando studies
  • Diffraction
  • Spectroscopy
  • Electron Microscopy
  • Surfaces and interfaces
  • Theory and computation
  • Ultrafast imaging and spectroscopy
  • Reaction dynamics
  • Magnetic molecules and materials
  • Electrochemistry
  • Structural biology
  • Crystallisation