Nanoscopic machines – using interlocked components to produce smart polymer nanoparticles

Like organic chemistry? Want to make molecules do more than just react? Then this is the PhD for you!

Background

Interlocked molecules, such as rotaxanes and catenanes, are captivating molecular architectures with enormous potential. Acting as building blocks for molecular machinery, they can move, twist, and perform tasks that mimic biological systems. In nature, these machines drive protein synthesis, cargo transport, and energy conversion. Inspired by these systems, scientists are now developing artificial molecular machinery that could one day power innovations in smart materials, nanotechnology, and medicine.

The 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry press release observed, “Time has clearly shown the revolutionary effect of miniaturising computer technology, whereas we have only seen the initial stages of what could result from the miniaturisation of machines.” Interlocked molecules are thus poised to make a revolutionary impact to materials design.

In the Fielden Group, we believe the key to unlocking this potential lies in combining interlocked components with polymers to produce nanoscopic machines. Polymers already shape our world, from packaging to clothing and healthcare. Their chemical versatility offers a unique platform for embedding molecular motion directly into materials. This project aims to create new classes of polymer-based materials that can move, respond, and adapt.

The project – Polymer nanoparticles containing interlocked components

The newly established Fielden Group (fieldengroup.net) aims to revolutionise nanotechnology by combining organic chemistry and polymer science to create materials that respond and adapt to their surroundings.

This PhD project will explore the construction of polymers with interlocked components and their self-assembly into nanoparticles. The work will begin with the design of rotaxane-based trigger–release systems. These will be integrated into block copolymers that assemble into well-defined nanostructures in solution. Building on this foundation, the project will create nanoscale analogues of molecular shuttles, switches, and machines, constituting an important step towards dynamic, responsive materials powered by molecular motion.

Training and mentoring

The successful candidate will gain broad experience in organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, nanoparticle fabrication and NMR. You’ll also have opportunities to collaborate with other research groups to gain expertise in rheology, SAXS, and microscopy, attend conferences, and shape the direction of your own project.

Students in the group receive close mentoring in project design, writing, and presentation skills. The Fielden group has received over £3 million in funding to date, thanks to support from an ERC Starting Grant and a Royal Society Dorothy Hodgkin Fellowship. This means we have plenty of resource to explore research ideas and there are lots of opportunities for training and travel. Graduates from the group will be well prepared for a career across all areas of science and technology.

Application process

Interested candidates should contact Dr Fielden by email in the first instance with a copy of their CV and a covering letter outlining their research interests. Applicants should have obtained a strong Master's degree in chemistry or a related discipline. There is no closing date but please apply as soon as possible since the position will be filled as soon as the right candidate is found.

The School of Chemistry is keen to achieve a gender and diversity balance across the School and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The School holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, which recognises its work in promoting women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM) in higher education.