University of Sussex -PhD Chemistry Life Sciences Leverhulme PhD Chemistry: Spin Crossover in Coordination Nanohoops (2022)

Spin crossover (SCO) describes switches in the electronic spin configuration of transition metal ions in molecular and supramolecular coordination compounds. SCO occurs in response to external stimuli, especially temperature, but also pressure or UV/visible light irradiation. The impact of SCO on properties such as colour and magnetism can be dramatic. Fundamental interest in SCO stems from a desire to understand how even very minor changes in intra- and inter-molecular interactions can have such a profound impact on bulk behaviour. Proper understanding of SCO could allow prediction and control of key features of the spin transitions, a realisation that has inspired ideas for novel types of molecular sensors, displays and magnetic memory devices.

Despite the remarkable progress, more work is needed to explain the fundamental relationship between molecular structure and SCO. The most important mechanism for controlling SCO is the immediate chemical environment experienced by the metal ion, i.e. the ligands. Innovative ligand design is critical, and we now propose the first systematic study into how a type of ligand referred to as carbon nanohoops can be used to manipulate and understand SCO. Our preliminary work on SCO nanohoops was recently published in Angew. Chem. 2021, 60, 3515.

The objectives of the project are to:

1. Develop efficient synthetic routes to a family of bipy-embedded carbon nanohoop ligands of varying sizes, and to use these ligands to synthesis spin crossover complexes containing one, two or three iron(II) centres;

2. Determine the molecular structures of the iron-nanohoops and their magnetic susceptibility properties, leading to a robust structure-property relationship that allows variations in the spin crossover properties to be understood in terms of well-defined intra- and inter-molecular interactions;

3. Use the larger iron-nanohoop SCO complexes as hosts for fullerene guests, and to use the host-guest interactions as a tool for tuning intermolecular cooperativity in the solid-state;

• Table of Content
• About University of Sussex
• University of Sussex PhD Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of University of Sussex PhD Scholarship
• Requirements for University of Sussex PhD Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is a leading research-intensive university near Brighton. We have both an international and local outlook, with staff and students from more than 100 countries and frequent engagement in community activities and services.

University of Sussex PhD Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of University of Sussex PhD Scholarship

The University of Sussex will provide Home tuition fees and a stipend at standard UKRI rates. Applicants with overseas fees must fund the difference between Home and International tuition fees.

Requirements for University of Sussex PhD Scholarship Qualification

Ideal candidates will have a strong background in synthetic chemistry, preferably synthetic inorganic/coordination chemistry. Eligible applicants will hold a 2:1 BSc in a relevant subject. Candidates for whom English is not their first language will require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any section.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Please submit a formal application using our online system at www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/apply attaching a CV, degree transcripts and certificates, statement of interest and two academic references.

On the application system select Programme of Study – PhD Chemistry. Please ensure you state the project title under funding and include the proposed supervisor’s name where required.