The objective of this module is to reach an understanding of the nature and magnitude of the intermolecular dynamic interactions that provide the driving force for the association between molecules and/or ions induced by covalent and non-covalent bonding interactions in solution, solid-state and at interfaces. The current trend in modern chemistry is to go beyond the classical molecular approach to provide a deeper understanding of molecular organization at different scales in both artificial and biological systems. We will survey the most important engineering approaches toward the preparation of complex matter along with the main characterization techniques and exploitation approaches for engineering technological-relevant applications. By surfing through the most important examples, we will also show how careful programming of the simple molecular components one can reach higher level of complexity with such a structure/activity level of understanding to design functional supramolecular architectures featuring applications in organic chemistry, chemical biology, materials science and nanotechnology.

Once the basic principles have been covered, the course will move on to a discussion of principles and examples of solution, surface and solid-state self-assembled molecular species and extended molecular frameworks. Specifically, molecular cages, surface self-assembled networks and metal-organic frameworks will be covered, with examples of their sensing and storage applications, before moving on to increasingly complex molecular logic-gates and molecular machines that begin to mimic biological systems in their function.

Additionally, this course will go through the concepts of how nature exploits supramolecular chemistry to perform crucial biological events, such as nucleic acid- and protein- depending function and ion transport. Important biotechnological applications based on self-assembled peptides/DNA, streptavidin:biotin and antibody will be discussed.

• Discuss the role of supramolecular chemistry in organic chemistry, chemical biology, materials science and nanotechnology.
• Explain non-covalent interactions, molecular recognition and self-assembly.
• Write short descriptions of some of the applications of supramolecular chemistry, including in dynamic covalent chemistry, materials chemistry (e.g. soft materials), biological systems and the construction of nanoscale entities.
• Describe in situ measurements that are used to study molecular interactions.
• Display extended comprehension of key chemical concepts and an in-depth understanding of complex matter.
• Adapt and apply fundamental methodology to the solution of unfamiliar problems and to technology relevant applications.
• Demonstrate critical awareness of advances at the forefront of the chemical science discipline interfacing with different disciplines.

The module will be delivered through 10 x 2 hr lectures and 4 hours workshops (two hours including presentation of a research idea, one hour of discussion and one hour for feedback) leading into self-learning activities to enhance student understanding and skills in the areas covered by the module. Students will have the opportunity to explore these aspects through independent learning activities (writing a scientific proposition along) alongside the lectures presenting the required material.

Students will have the opportunity to develop their critical analysis and problem solving skills, dealing with data from a variety of methods to come to a rounded understanding of catalyst structure, materials properties and mode of operation in key catalytic processes. 

The module is summatively assessed via in course assessments.

There is no examination for this module.

The module will cover the principles of molecular recognition:

Basic concepts in self-assembly and self-organization, thermodynamics and kinetics of host-guest processes along with the main characterization techniques (Lectures 1&2); complexation of neutral molecules in aqueous solution and their technological applications - sensors and drug delivery (Lecture 3); non-covalent interactions involving aromatic rings (Lecture 4); hydrogen-, halogen- and chalcogen-bonding interactions (Lecture 5&6); dynamic covalent bonds (Lecture 7); supramolecular polymers (Lecture 8); Template effects & molecular self-assembly approach towards nanostructures in solutions (including molecular cages and inorganic nanotubes), on surfaces (2D networks and topology considerations) and in the solid-state (Lectures 9&10); basic concepts of crystal engineering; MOFs (and COFs), gas storage, separation and sensing applications (Lecture 11-12); applications of molecular recognition in logic gates, including medical diagnostics, colorimetric and luminescent sensors (Lecture 13); molecular machines, from simple catenanes and rotaxanes to more complex multi-station multi-stimuli responsive supramolecular systems, finishing with conceptual and functional links with biological supramolecular chemistry (Lecture 14); basic concepts of molecular recognition in biology, including cell architecture, biomolecular interactions, structure of essential building units, lipids, DNA/RNA, protein, sugar (Lectures 15&16); natural Ion Channels, including peptide-based ion change, cation/anion complexation, cross-membrane ion channel (Lectures 17&18); biotechnological applications (e.g. artificial enzyme design, live cell imaging, cellular import/drug delivery) based on the concepts of supramolecular chemistry; particular examples include DNA-directed synthesis, streptavidin:biotin, self-assembled peptides and antibodies technology and anti-virus drug development (Lectures 19&20).