PhD in Chemistry (Organic, Inorganic)

The aim of this project is to work on state-of-the-art heteropolymetallic architectures (organometallic transition-metal and lanthanide complexes) in the area of two-photon molecular upconversion luminescence, for application as novel bioimaging probes. Research into new in vivo medical imaging modalities is a paradigm of modern chemistry, aiding in early diagnoses, increase survival rates, and thereby improve quality of life. One of the most promising techniques is luminescent imaging. However, conventional methods suffer from limitations such as autofluorescence and poor tissue penetration of visible light. Upconversion (UC), a two-photon anti-Stokes process, is a panacea for these shortcomings, allowing ultra-long-lifetime phosphorescence in the biological window. This project aims to utilise UC in molecular and supramolecular [d-f] heteropolynuclear assemblies through the use of coordination and organometallic d-metal complexes (RuII, IrIII, PtII), in combination with azamacrocyclic lanthanide complexes (YbIII, NdIII). This will include multistep synthesis of the proposed targets, followed by rigorous photophysical characterisation by investigating fundamental energy-transfer processes via luminescence spectroscopy, with the aim of creating unprecedented in vivo imaging platforms based upon molecular UC. You'll acquire proficiency in synthetic organic, organometallic chemistry, coordination chemistry, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray crystallography. You'll have full access to a suite of techniques via state-of-the-art facilities including NMR spectroscopy, IR, HPLC and Mass-Spectrometry, in addition to world-leading X-ray diffraction facilities. You'll also participate in group-meetings, school seminars and represent the group at national/international conferences. This will give you the opportunity to disseminate your research results with world-leaders in the area.