Organometallic chemistry, Bioinorganic chemistry, Materials chemistry, Catalysis
The main focus of our research interests are in ligand design, synthetic organometallic chemistry, and materials chemistry with an emphasis on the synthesis of metal complexes with potential applications in catalysis, and as therapeutic agents. In one of our research projects, we are exploring the design, and synthesis of new ruthenium based compounds containing ligands modified with fluorescent chromophores, study their solution chemistry, and investigating their reactivity with DNA model nucleobases. We are also exploring the potential of the fluorescent properties of the ligands for the synthesis and development of photoactivated metal based therapeutic agents. Fluorescent properties of the ligands also offer the potential for following complexes reactivity with biomolecules or in catalytic applications. The second project involves the synthesis and characterization of ionic liquid functionalized mesoporous and nanoporous silica materials with potential application in catalysis, separation, and the synthesis of luminescent lanthanide compounds.
