The School of Chemistry is a vibrant centre of research in chemistry. We have an international reputation in a wide range of fields from catalysis to anticancer drug design and molecular photonics to nanotechnology.
Research in the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences is organised into the following groups:
Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Our strength in medicinal chemistry is evident through our track record of successful research. This has included the discovery of drugs that have progressed to clinic. We have core capacity in:
- anti-cancer drug discovery
- biomolecular imaging
- computational chemistry
- chemical biology
Nanoscience and Materials
Our research develops new methods to synthesise, characterise and improve our understanding of materials. We focus on materials with useful nanoscale properties.
Photonic Materials
Photonic materials refer to systems that respond to stimulation by light. These can range from single molecules to intricate architectures and molecular devices. Many systems focus on:
- converting sunlight into chemical potential
- the concentration of excitonic energy.
We focus on understanding fundamental principles by using spectroscopic examination.
Structure and Dynamics
Structure underpins the majority of research in chemistry, biology and materials science. The trouble is, the world is dynamic and not static. This means that understanding how structures evolve during a chemical reaction is critical. Our research relates to fundamental and applied research fields over broad time ranges.
Synthesis, Reactivity and Catalysis
This research group combines the expertise of organic and inorganic chemists. Our research aims to advance fundamental knowledge and capabilities in synthesis and reactivity. We focus on the elements s, p, d and f blocks across the periodic table. Through this study we can develop new and improved materials and catalytic processes.
Delivery
You will work closely with an internationally recognised supervisor and receive a high level of training in your specialised subject area. At the start of your research, your supervisor will direct the project and discuss your training requirements. As you gain confidence and expertise you will be given increasing responsibility for the day-to-day running of the project and to explore your own ideas.
Thriving collaborations exist with colleagues in Biology, Medicine, Chemical Engineering and Materials, Cell and Molecular Biology, Electrical and Civil Engineering. The School is also associated with the Northern Institute for Cancer Research and the Institute for Sustainability.
Facilities
You will have access to a wide range of instrumentation, modern laboratories and research active staff. Modern spectroscopic techniques are available for studying slow to ultrafast reactions. Excellent facilities exist to carry out the synthesis and characterisation of novel materials. We have extensive computational resources for performing molecular modelling. Our NMR facilities include 300-700 MHz spectrometers. Glass-blowing, mechanical and electrical/electronic workshops are also available.
