Master of Philosophy (MPhil) - Inorganic Chemistry

Inorganic Chemistry is a key research area within the Chemistry (MPhil) programme, offering students the opportunity to work within a dedicated research group focused on the design, synthesis, and application of metal-based systems. The programme welcomes applicants interested in a wide range of topics, including ligand design, coordination and organometallic chemistry, catalysis, polymer and nanoparticle synthesis, bioimaging, and sustainable chemical processes. Research in this area sits at the interface of multiple disciplines, including physics, materials science, pharmacy, and biomedical sciences, creating a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.

The research group specialises in the development and characterisation of metal coordination complexes involving both main group and transition metals. Advanced spectroscopic techniques underpin much of this work, including multinuclear NMR, IR, UV-visible spectroscopy, and more specialised methods such as time-resolved luminescence using UV-vis-NIR detection. These approaches are used to investigate the properties of metal complexes and organic chromophores, including the development of more sustainable alternatives to precious metals in photophysical applications. Spectroscopic expertise also supports the development of chemical sensors and the study of catalytic systems, often combining experimental and computational approaches.

Research extends to applications in sustainability, materials science, and biomedicine. Projects include the design of recyclable polymers, the development of catalytic systems, and the synthesis and study of nanoparticles for biological use, such as luminescent carbon nanomaterials and magnetic nanoparticles. The group is also actively involved in biomedical imaging research, exploring applications in MRI, PET, SPECT, and fluorescence microscopy in collaboration with biosciences and medical researchers. Students play a central role in these research activities, gaining experience in both fundamental and applied aspects of inorganic chemistry.