Synthesis of Novel Hybrid Nanomaterials with Macrocyclic Receptors for Host-guest Optical Sensing

Within the last two decades, hybrid nanomaterials have emerged as fundamental building blocks for modern technological and scientific research. In the field of optical sensor technology, constructing hierarchical composite materials of two or more nanostructured domain and implementing appropriate surface modification and molecular binding strategies are important steps needed to construct robust and accurate sensor systems exhibiting high sensitivity, excellent selectivity and rapid response.
 
Supramolecular chemistry offers a wide range of macrocyclic synthetic receptors specifically tuned for binding a large variety of analytes. At present, supramolecular receptors such as cyclodextrins, cucurbiturils, calixarenes and cavitands, function better than antibodies in terms of reproducibility and cost-effectiveness. Synthesizing supramolecular receptors with specific functional groups and binding to the surface of hybrid nanomaterials is a way forward in constructing novel host-guest chemical sensors.
 
This is an exciting project which will seek to synthesize novel hybrid nanomaterials and supramolecular receptors for the detection of a wide range of explosive compounds. Emphasis will be focused on materials synthesis, surface functionalization, assay development and the sensor fabrication strategy. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to gain valuable experience in advance nanomaterials synthesis and characterization, supramolecular chemistry, bioconjugation chemistry and sensor fabrication.
 
We are looking for a research driven, problem solving and highly motivated student with an excellent degree in chemistry or materials science or an individual with experience in synthetic chemistry to join our multi-disciplinary team. The ability to think outside the box and come up with cutting-edge research ideas will be a unique advantage.

To register their interest candidates are requested to submit a full CV and cover letter, these should be sent to Dr Oluwasesan Adegoke ([Email Address Removed]) and Professor Niamh Nic Daeid ([Email Address Removed]).