Research in Physical Chemistry encompasses: laser spectroscopy with applications in surface science, biophysics and atmospheric chemistry; the application of novel theoretical methods to chemical and chemical physics; colloid and nano-chemistry. Within Analytical Chemistry, ‘smart' polymers; bioanalytical chemistry; and isotopic mass spectrometric measurements for forensic analysis are all being developed.

Research is currently led by the following members of Faculty:

Prof David L. Andrews 

  • Novel mechanisms in molecular energy transfer and fluorescence optical manipulation
  • Complex beam interactions
  • Switching light-harvesting in multi-chromophore nanostructures

Dr Stephen H. Ashworth

  • High resolution spectroscopy of involatile solids.
  • Photophysics of solution phase phthalocyanines.
  • Atmospheric monitoring by spectroscopy.

Dr Nigel J. Clayden

  • Combined nuclear and muon spin radiofrequency spectroscopy
  • Solid state NMR
  • Dynamics in liquids and solids by NMR

Dr Yimin Chao

  • Synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles
  • Fabrication of thin films using functionalized nanoparticles
  • Uptake and toxicity of nanoparticles in cultured cells
  • Applications of nanoparticles in solar cells, thermoelectric modules, and memory devices

Dr Upali A. Jayasooriya

  • Chemical and Analytical applications of Vibrational Spectroscopies including IR, Raman, Neutron Scattering and Nuclear Inelastic Scattering
  • Chemical applications of Muon Spectroscopies

Dr Andrew G. Mayes

  • Creation of "artificial antibodies" for sensing and molecular imprinting.
  • Design, synthesis and characterisation of "smart" polymer materials
  • Development of new analytical methodology based on polymers and materials

Prof Steve R. Meech 

  • Ultrafast Spectroscopy
  • Photodynamics of proteins
  • Dynamics of complex fluids

Prof David A. Russell

  • Bioanalytical chemistry at the nanoscale
  • Biofunctionalised metal / metal oxide nanoparticles for: fingerprinting; intracellular analysis; and cancer therapy
  • Carbohydrate and glycoprotein nanoparticles and microarrays

Dr Gregory G. Wildgoose

  • Organometallic synthesis & electrochemistry
  • Electrocatalysis
  • Energy & Materials
  • Electrochemical Nanoscience & Nanomaterials
  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Sensors and Catalysts