Bioinorganic Chemistry of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). AD is the most common form of neurodegenerative diseases (dementia). 35,000 people in Ireland and close to 36 million worldwide suffer from AD. It is imperative that we understand the atomic/molecular basis for AD pathogenesis. Metal (Fe, Cu, and Zn) ions play a central role in AD pathogenesis and are found in elevated concentrations in AD brains. Neurotoxicity in AD is associated with redox processes involving metal ions and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The mechanism of ROS generation and the role of metal ions in these processes are poorly understood. We are developing small molecule mimics of AD metal binding sites and investigating the mechanisms of ROS-induced degeneration using these model complexes in order to better understand AD pathogenesis. Ultimately, these studies could yield novel drugs to counteract the degenerative function of metals and ROS in the brain. |
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Fast Molecular Water Oxidation Catalysts (WOCs). Water oxidation catalysis is a vital component of water splitting. Artificial water splitting is an essential technology because it allows for the conversion of abundant solar energy and H2O to the carbon-neutral fuels O2 and H2. However, artificial water splitting technologies have been impeded by slow WOCs. To date, an unsystematic approach to developing WOCs has been taken. No significant attention has been directed towards how the intrinsic properties of the catalyst, such as oxidation state, spin state, and d-electron count, affect the catalytic activity. We are utilising a first principles, bottom-up approach to WOC design to develop the next generation of fast molecular WOCs. |
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Functionalisation of 2-D materials. We investigate synthetic routes towards functionalised two-dimensional nanomaterials. These functionalised materials will have applications in photovoltaics and catalysis, amongst others. |
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Hurdling the oxo-wall. The selective oxidative activation of inert alkanes to yield alcohols, haloalkanes, or alkenes remains a challenge due to the relative inertness of the C-H bond. High-valent terminal metal-oxo complexes boast the potential to activate the most inert of C-H bonds. To date, most reported metal-oxo’s belong to groups 3-8 of the periodic table. We are investigating the synthesis and reactivity of group 9 and 10 metal-oxo complexes in the search for more potent oxidants. We are exploring routes towards d5 and d6 metal-oxo complexes. Once isolated, the metal-oxo’s propensity towards C-H bond activation will be investigated. |
Funding:
TCD start-up funds
TCD School of Chemistry
EU FP7 Marie Curie Career Integration Grant.
SFI reseach centre AMBER/CRANN
Funding opportunities: If you are interested in applying for external funding from the funding agencies below or elsewhere for a Ph.D. or PostDoc position in our group please contact Aidan.
Postgraduate: Trinity Awards |
Postdoctorate: Irish Research Council |