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2021 HONOURS PROJECTS
School of Chemistry 5 CONTENTS Members of the School are active across all the traditional and emerging areas of modern chemical research. They are clustered around three multidisciplinary themes: functional energy materials; self-assembled nanomaterials; and molecular innovations in health. Functional energy materials Dr Hamid Arandiyan 31 Dr William Jorgensen
Associate Professor 32 Professor Michael Kassiou Deanna D’Alessandro 33 Dr Yu Heng Lau Professor Associate Professor 34 Peter Lay Meredith Jordan 35 Dr Xuyu Liu 10 Dr Ivan Kassal 36 11 Professor Brendan Kennedy Associate Professor Chris McErlean 12 Professor Cameron Kepert 37 Associate Professor Alice Motion 13 Professor Chris Ling 38 Associate Professor Liz New 14 Dr Lauren Macreadie 39 Professor Richard Payne 15 Professor Thomas Maschmeyer 40 Professor Lou Rendina 16 Associate Professor Tony Masters Professor Peter Rutledge 17 Associate Professor Siggi Schmid 41 Self-assembled nanomaterials 42 Dr Mark White
18 Professor Phil Gale 43 Dr Shelley Wickham
19 Dr Toby Hudson Computational and theoretical, 20 Dr Girish Lakhwani soft matter, materials chemistry
21 Dr Markus Muellner 45 Professor Peter Harrowell 22 Associate Professor Chiara Neto 46 Professor Stephen Hyde 23 Dr Derrick Roberts 47 Professor Peter Gill
24 Professor Greg Warr Chemical Education 25 Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper 49 Dr Stephen George-Williams Molecular innovations in health 50 Dr Reyne Pullen 27 Dr Samuel Banister 51 Associate Professor Siggi Schmid 28 Associate Professor Ron Clarke 52 Dr Shane Wilkinson 29 Dr Jonathan Danon 53 Associate Professor Alice Motion 30 Professor Kate Jolliffe 54 Professor Peter Rutledge 6
FUNCTIONAL ENERGY MATERIALS
Research areas • Molecular/ionic transport through solids • Large-scale energy storage and conversion • Batteries, fuel cells, selective molecular storage/separation/remediation • Metal-organic frameworks, ionic solids, polymers, ionic liquids
Functional energy materials researchers: • Dr Hamid Arandiyan • Associate Professor Deanna D’Alessandro • Associate Professor Meredith Jordan • Dr Ivan Kassal • Professor Brendan Kennedy • Professor Cameron Kepert • Professor Chris Ling
• Professor Thomas Maschmeyer
• Associate Professor Tony Masters
• Associate Professor Siggi Schmid 7 dr hamid arandiyan
Room 201B T: +61 2 9114 2199 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/hamid-arandiyan.html
My research focuses on the solutions performance. This project aims to Heterogeneous electrocatalysts that aid sustainability through investigate morphologic nanocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction: nano-materials design and catalytic which are low cost and show excellent Electrocatalytic water splitting, process development. One of the CO2 methanation efficiency. (See involving a cathodic hydrogen main objectives of our research Chem Comm 2018, 54, 6484; Adv. evolution reaction (HER) and an is to investigate rational synthetic Sustainable Syst. 2018, 2, 1700119; anodic oxygen evolution reaction strategies for nanocatalysts and to ACS Appl Mater Interfaces. 2018, (OER), is an established efficient explore the applications of these 10, 24963). Supervisor: Dr Hamid technology for hydrogen production. nanomaterials in the energy and Arandiyan. However, to make the electrolyser environmental sectors, such as practical both reactions require an pollutant degradation, effective Design of hierarchical nanoporous efficient catalyst to accelerate the energy usage, and emission control materials for energy-related reaction kinetics. It is particularly in the transportation and industry application: Ordered macro- and important to develop good anode applications. mesoporous materials, which arose in catalysts for OER since it generally the early 1990s, are rapidly developing requires high overpotentials that limit as an interdisciplinary research the energy-efficiency of the process. focus. This kind of material is not Turn “waste” into wealth: CO (See Nature Communications 2015, 2 only defined by a large and uniform methanation: The world is facing 6, 8253; Energy Environ. Sci. 2016, 9 porosity, high regularity of nanopores significant challenges, including (1), 176-183). Supervisor: Dr Hamid and large surface area but it also the combination of a carbon-based Arandiyan enables a great deal of applications energy system with the reality of global warming. The hydrogenation by the possibilities of functional and morphological control enabled of CO2 waste gas to methane (closing a loop in carbon recycling) by diverse chemical compositions. provides an energy storage A hierarchical porous material solution for intermittent renewable combines two or more types of pore sources, which can be used as fuel sizes (macro-, meso- and micro-) or even as a renewable feedstock as functional units that can meet for bulk chemicals, thereby aiding different application requirements. sustainability. Although many efforts For example, in a gas phase catalytic have been made in relation to reaction, hierarchical catalysts could guarantee a good mass and catalytic CO2 methanation, effectively activating the thermodynamically flow transfer as well as avoid the pressure drop, and at the same time stable CO2 molecule continues to be an obstacle as it requires high provide a large surface area for better Please feel free to contact us to learn temperatures and is an energy- activity. Therefore, the investigation more about these and other projects intensive process. The impasse of different types of hierarchical availablle. always present regarding catalysts for nanoporous materials for energy- energy conversion reactions is that related applications is highly promising. noble metals with promising activity (See Nature Comm 2017, 8, 15553; are limited by their high price and Nano Energy 2016, 27, 515; ACS Catal. scarcity, whereas base metals with 2016, 6, 6935). Supervisor: Dr Hamid a lower price show more moderate Arandiyan 8 A/PROF DEANNA D’ALESSANDRO
Room 457
T: +61 2 9351 3777
W:https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our -people/academic-staff/deanna-dalessandro.html
Our research spans the areas of inorganic Project 2 chemistry, physical chemistry and materials science Carbon Dioxide Capture and Conversion and focuses on the development of functional The development of more efficient processes for inorganic complexes and materials that exhibit carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and conversion is novel electronic, optical and magnetic phenomena. considered key to the reduction of greenhouse gas Applications of our work range from the capture of emissions implicated in global warming. This project greenhouse gases to address critical environmental is offered jointly with industry partners and will challenges, to sensors, optoelectronics devices and involve the synthesis of highly porous three- catalysis for carbon dioxide conversion to fuels.A dimensional solids known as MOFs for use in the key aspect is gaining an understanding of the direct capture of CO2 from air. A second aspect of fundamental relationships between the structural this project is to develop and understand features of the materials and their physical organometallic catalysts in order to prepare the properties. building blocks for fine- and commodity chemicals,
pharmaceuticals and fuels (i.e. methanol) from CO2. Project 1 This project may be offered jointly with Dr Indrek Conducting Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Pernik. Supervisors: Deanna D’Alessandro, Indrek The realisation of electronically conducting Pernik microporous materials is one of the most highly sought after (yet poorly developed) goals in the field. This project will involve the design and synthesis of MOFs which exhibit stable radical states that can be generated using chemical, electrical or light as a stimulus. Solid-state electrochemistry and novel in situ Project 3 spectroelectrochemical techniques developed in Photo- and Electroswitchable MOFs our laboratory, in addition to conductivity Recently, methodologies for the postsynthetic measurements will be employed to investigate the covalent functionalisation of MOFs have opened up electronic and conductivity properties. The fascinating prospects for building complexity into the opportunities for advances at a fundamental and pores. This project will involve the synthesis of applied level are immense, with potential materials as “photo- and electroswitchable applications ranging from new battery materials, to molecular sieves” in which light can be used to lightweight sensors, and materials for energy- modulate the size and electrostatic properties of the efficient gas separations using electrical swing Thisporesproject. will also make adsorption. Supervisors: Deanna D’Alessandro, initial steps towards the Cameron Kepert integration of switchable frameworks into membranes for industrial e- scale processes. Supervisor: Deanna D’Alessandro
Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 9 associate professor meredith jordan
Room 544 T: +61 2 9351 4420 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/meredith-jordan.html
We use theoretical and computational 3. We have recently shown Projects are available in (i) further methods to examine the interactions photochemically-induced method development: working towards within and between molecules in order keto-enol isomerization of new, accurate quantum methods to understand and predict chemical acetaldehyde is a significant that can be used in large, chemically reactivity and the relationship between source of atmospheric formic realistic systems, (ii) examining structure and function. The key to acid – it is the dominant source in temperature and gas-loading this understanding is an accurate the marine boundary layer. We are effects on adsorption and (iii) tuning description of molecular potential yet to determine how important adsorption enthalpy by altering the energy surface (PES). We have this mechanism is in other nature of the MOF and/or designing developed novel interpolation methods atmospheric carbonyls. and have used them to study reaction new materials for gas storage and/ dynamics as well as quantum effects 4. Reaction and collisional or separation. Supervisor: Associate on structure and thermodynamics. stabilisation of very internally Professor Meredith Jordan “hot” atmospheric molecules, for Molecular property surfaces: We New mechanisms in atmospheric example, after absorption of solar chemistry: The predictive value of radiation, are complete unknowns. have developed new methods to atmospheric models improves with our We propose new experiments and describe molecular dipole moment knowledge of the chemistry. As models theory to investigate and quantify and polarizability surfaces. These become more and more accurate, it these processes. surfaces, and the molecular PES, becomes more difficult to challenge have been used to demonstrate that their overall qualitative findings. Honours projects are available to the effects of both isotropic and address any or all of these challenges. anisotropic external electric fields (an There are many outstanding They involve collaboration with electric field is a common model for a challenges in atmospheric modelling experiment as well as opportunities including: molecule’s external environment) can for inter-disciplinary atmospheric box be approximated using a power series and chemical transport modelling. 1. Only about half the observed H2 expansion. can be accounted for by current Supervisors: Associate Professor atmospheric models. Given the Meredith Jordan and Professor Scott Electric fields are extremely important Kable (UNSW – Experiment). increasing use of H2 as a fuel, this in biology and can change chemical is a significant shortcoming that structure and catalyse reactions. This New methods to study gas needs to be urgently addressed. adsorption in porous crystals: We project investigates the electric fields We have demonstrated a new have developed both reduced- associated with the protein binding photochemical source of H 2 and full-dimensional models of H sites of neurotransmitter molecules. although the mechanism and its 2 physisorption in metallo-organic By making a model of the local electric ubiquity are yet to be determined. framework materials (such as MOF- field, you will be able to investigate its 2. In pristine environments there 5) or carbon-based materials. Using effects on both endogenous ligands is a significant shortfall (by Quantum diffusion Monte Carlo and potential drug molecules and work over an order of magnitude) in (QDMC) and Path Integral Monte towards general, transferable models predicted concentrations of OH Carlo (PIMC) simulations we can now for other applications. Supervisor: determine the quantum character and HO2 radicals, two of the Associate Professor Meredith Jordan most important radicals in the as well as quantum thermodynamic Please feel free to contact me to learn atmosphere. We have postulated properties of adsorbed H2. These novel atmospheric reactions that techniques are also applicable to other more about these and other projects
may produce OH and HO2. adsorbates, e.g. CO2 and CH4. available. 10 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR IVAN KASSAL
Room 543A
W: https://www.kassal.group
We envision a world where all of chemistry can be Simulating Organic Electronics predicted by computers. Toward that goal, we Organic semiconductors can be made into light- develop theoretical and computational tools to emitting diodes for displays and lighting, better understand fundamental chemical processes photovoltaics for truly green energy, and transistors and to design superior devices, especially solar for flexible electronics. Despite their successes, cells. One focus in our group are energy and charge elementary processes in these materials are poorly transport, which underpin photosynthesis, solar understood. This project will develop fundamental cells, batteries, and molecular electronics. new theories to describe charge and energy motion in organic electronics, so that rational design can We values openness, integrity, clarity, rigour, replace the current trial-and-error approach.A collaboration, and diversity. Our Honours students possible focus will be on relating device-scale at USyd have solved some of the most important performance with intrinsic molecular disorder. problems in our field, and they have all won A project combining theoretical prediction and University Medals. Being theorists, we were not experimental tests is also possible, co-supervised slowed down by COVID, but became experts in with Dr. Girish Lakhwani. remote work, and we welcome students unable to attend USyd in person. No programming experience is necessary to join us, only a willingness to learn. Bio-inspired & Quantum-enhanced Light Harvesting We’ve shown that photosynthetic organisms use quantum effects to improve their light harvesting. Chemical Reactions on Quantum Computers However, quantum improvements in light-harvesting We’ve shown that quantum computers could solve have never been demonstrated conclusively because chemical problems much faster than conventional no one has found a way to turn coherence on and computers. As a result, chemistry is seen as a killer off. In this project, you will use ideas about quantum app for quantum computers, targeted by all the control to design a proof-of-principle device with major players in the quantum industry. This project dramatically quantum-enhanced light harvesting. is part of our effort, with colleagues in Physics, to You will also work with experimentalists to turn your demonstrate the first simulation of a chemical predictions into reality. reaction on a working quantum computer. You will use theory and simulation—or even a real quantum device—to discover ways to map Please contact me for details and about research chemical reactions onto quantum computers, areas on our group website, www.kassal.group interpret experimental results, and overcome the limitations of existing quantum hardware. All along, Figures (L to R): Ion-trap quantum computer we work with; you will also be paving the way for the first photosynthetic light-harvesting apparatus of purple bacteria; practical application of quantum computers. charge transport in organic semiconductors; out having fun. This project can be co-supervised with Prof. Michael Biercuk, or undertaken by students in Physics. 11 PROFESSOR BRENDAN KENNEDY
Room 458
T: +61 2 9351 2742
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/brendan-kennedy.html
In the Kennedy lab, we study the relationships Using Oxides as hosts for toxic metals between chemistry, crystal structure, and electronic Although heavy metals occur naturally throughout the and magnetic properties of non-molecular solids. We earth’s crust, human exposure to these has risen make extensive use of landmark Synchrotron and dramatically as a result of an exponential increase of Neutron Facilities in addition to the state-of-art their use in industrial, agricultural, domestic and facilities at the University of Sydney. technological applications. Most environmental The role of oxide conductors a low carbon economy contamination and human exposure results from anthropogenic activities such as mining and smelting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells have the potential to be the operations, industrial production and use, and ultimate low carbon energy source; This work is agricultural use of metals and metal-containing concerned with the development of stable oxide compounds. conducting membranes, that would separate the active anode and cathode in a fuel cell. Such This project uses crystallographic knowledge to membrane must have low electrical conductivity and reverse engineer oxides capable of selectively binding high oxide conductivity. This project will explore the heavy metal. use of non-stoichiometric oxides for such applications. What are the minerals on Saturn’s moon Titan? Structural and Magnetic Phase Transitions The Cassini spacecraft has revealed Saturn’s largest
Double perovskites (A2BB′O6) serve as an ideal moon Titan to be a diverse world, with geological framework to study magnetic interactions between features that are astonishingly similar to those found different transition metal ions, due to the variety of on our own world. But what are the surface virtual electron transfers between overlapping metal materials? Photochemical processes in Titan’s orbitals which can take place through the ligand atmosphere are driven by solar radiation and energy (superexchange interactions). We have recently from Saturn’s magnetosphere. Under these shown that the heavier (5d) transition metals have processes, nitrogen and methane dissociate into unique magnetic properties and this project seeks to radicals and then recombine, generating organic increase the number of examples. molecules that range from simple (ethane, acetylene and hydrogen cyanide) to more complex molecules. It is these that make up the surface, but very few of the molecules calculated to exist on Titan have been fully characterised in their solid state. 12 professor cameron kepert
Room 308 T: +61 2 9351 5741 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/cameron-kepert.html
Six projects are available, with points aims are towards understanding address the safe and efficient storage of focus spanning a broad range of the structural features that lead to of hydrogen gas – one of the principal topics and techniques. nanoporosity and, more fundamentally, current challenges in this area – how molecular hosts respond to the through the use of nanoporous phases Electronic switching: This presence of guests (and vice versa). designed to have high surface areas project involves the synthesis and Supervisor: Professor Cameron and functionalised chemical surfaces. characterisation of nanoporous Kepert. molecular hosts that switch Supervisor: Professor Cameron electronically due to the presence of Nanoporous chiral frameworks: Kepert. spin centres within their frameworks. The recent discovery of molecular In generating the first materials of this materials that are both nanoporous Redox-active molecular frameworks: type, we have recently discovered and homochiral paves the This project will involve the use of a wide range of completely new way for unique approaches to redox-active species to construct materials properties in which the enantioseparations. This project nanoporous framework materials switching and host-guest behaviours extends this important discovery with novel electronic and magnetic are linked. The global vision of this by investigating the synthesis and properties. Particular aims of work is the generation of materials for guest-exchange chemistry of new the project are the synthesis of device-application where switching chiral materials. Experiments into nanoporous magnets and electrically acts as a mechanism for data storage, the selectivity of these processes conducting nanoporous materials. sensing, molecular recognition and will be fundamental in evaluating This project is in collaboration molecular control. Supervisor: the suitability of the materials for with Associate Professor Deanna Professor Cameron Kepert. commercial application. Supervisor: Professor Cameron Kepert D’Alessandro. Supervisor: Professor Negative thermal expansion Cameron Kepert. (NTE): The decrease of crystal Hydrogen storage: In the proposed lattice dimensions with increasing Hydrogen Economy, hydrogen gas Please feel free to contact me to learn temperature (NTE) is a potentially replaces fossil fuels at the centre of more about these and other projects useful property that has been a clean energy cycle. This project will available. observed only very rarely. This project will involve the use of X-ray and neutron diffraction to characterise the effect in selected framework materials. Chemical modification by doping will be investigated in an attempt to develop crystals displaying zero thermal expansion. Supervisor: Professor Cameron Kepert.
Guest desorption and adsorption: Nanoporous molecular framework materials have recently been shown to remain crystalline following guest desorption. In this project, single crystal X-ray diffraction will be used to characterise both the removal and re-introduction of guest species within molecular host lattices. Primary 13 PROFESSOR CHRIS LING
Room 455
T: +61 2 9351 4780
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/chris-ling.html
The goal of our research is to discover, characterise Multifunctional materials and optimise functional solid-state materials. We Project 1: Using high-pressure to shorten and take a “crystal chemical” approach whereby we strengthen metal-metal bonding relate the crystal structure of a material to its Negative thermal expansion, where a material chemical composition on the one hand, and to its expands on cooling, can arise through a range of physical properties on the other, to guide the mechanisms. We recently discovered a new class design and synthesis of improved materials. that seems to work by forming unusual metal-metal bonds. The goal of this project in to design and Energy materials synthesise new compounds in this class and Project 1: Surprising and (potentially) useful understand how they work. It will use high- magnetism in lithium-ion batteries pressure/high-temperature synthesis to stabilise Despite the huge amount of interest in battery them, low-temperature (<0.1 K) physical property materials, very little is known about their low- measurements and synchrotron X-ray methods. temperature magnetic properties. These are not only a “gold mine” of fundamentally interesting Supervisor: Professor Chris Ling research, but a promising means of characterising the Li content at any point in the charge-discharge Multifunctional materials cycle. This project will involve synthesis, modification Project 2: Naturally layered multiferroics – (e.g., ion-exchange), magnetic measurements, combining properties on an atomic scale neutron diffraction, building and testing batteries. Multiferroics exhibit both ferroelectricity (electrical polarisation) and ferromagnetism (spin polarisation). Supervisor: Professor Chris Ling They have important applications as sensors, actuators and – potentially – data storage media. Energy materials This project will use naturally layered ferroelectrics Project 2: Mixed ionic-electronic conductors as “templates” for atomic layers of magnetic cations. Mixed ionic-electronic conduction (MIEC) is a rare It will involve: DFT calculations to predict the property required for fuel-cell electrodes. We stability of new compounds; controlled-atmosphere recently discovered a number of new MIEC oxides reactions; neutron and synchrotron diffraction; following the key breakthrough of growing cm-sized magnetic and electronic property measurements. single crystals in our floating-zone furnace (FZF). This project will investigate new barium-based oxides Supervisor: Professor Chris Ling predicted to show MIEC, with FZF crystal-growth as a centrepiece. We will use the crystals for physical property and neutron spectroscopy experiments, Please feel free to contact me to learn more about supported by ab initio (DFT) dynamics calculations. these and other projects available.
Supervisor: Professor Chris Ling 14
Dr Lauren Macreadie Room 516A E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/lauren-macreadie.html
Our research area uniquely encompasses both aliphatic based systems. Our team works with rigid, organic and inorganic chemistry to develop aliphatic linkers such as cubane-1,4-dicarboxylic acid
interesting functional porous materials for (H2cdc) and have discovered enormous potential in hydrogen generation, storage and transport, these systems. Due to the bulky nature of the amongst other energy driven applications. Using cubane, more supramolecular interactions are diffraction methods from the Australian possible between the host and guest systems. This Synchrotron, we are able to piece together the project extends the investigation to other aliphatic structure-function relationships of these new linkers which will exhibit exciting properties. This is a materials and continually refine them for better high impact project and involves the investigation performance. into the different host-guest behaviours between Skills acquired from these projects include: aliphatic and aromatic MOFs. X-ray single crystal and powder diffraction, Supervisor: Lauren Macreadie synchrotron diffraction, organic synthesis and MOF characterisation using NMR, UV-Vis and gas O adsorption. OH HO O Photoactive frameworks for water splitting or CO2 O reduction OH HO Luminescent MOFs (LMOFs) are rapidly gaining O interest due to their promise in a broad range of applications including chemical sensing, artificial Negative thermal expansion (NTE) of aliphatic photosynthetic catalysis and optoelectronics. MOFs Recently, we have found tuneable luminescence can Many materials exhibit positive thermal expansion be gained through modulation of linkers with mixed with temperature. However, MOFs interestingly functionalities and the incorporation of mixed exhibit negative thermal expansion (NTE) – a metals. This project investigates increasing the phenomenon not often seen in materials. This is luminescent lifetimes of phenanthroline based MOFs advantageous when trying to design zero thermal through varying the conjugation in the MOF linker. expansion materials which are highly sought after in Supervisors: Lauren Macreadie and Deanna industry. MOFs exhibit local twisting vibrations D’Alessandro (collaboration with Uni Otago in NZ). around the metal clusters and long-range translational motion of the linkers upon heating, however these responses still need to be verified in aliphatic MOF materials. This project will tune the NTE coefficient in MOFs through varying the aliphatic to aromatic linker ratio, followed by careful investigation using powder X-ray diffraction is used at both the Australian synchrotron and the Wombat diffractometer at ANSTO. Aliphatic frameworks for hydrogen and CO2 storage Supervisors: Lauren Macreadie and Cameron Kepert Most MOFs are constructed using aromatic linkers,
such as terephthalic acid (H2bdc), due to their low Please feel free to contact me to cost and well understood chemistry. Consequently, learn more about these and other
over 10,000 MOFs are made with only H2bdc, giving projects available. a very poor representation and understanding of 15
professor thomas maschmeyer
Room 303 T: +61 2 9351 2581 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/ our-people/academic-staff/thomas- maschmeyer.html
Our research aims to enhance hydrogen and oxygen gas- of which of (waste) lignin to useful aromatic sustainability by generating and using complement each other, the project chemicals. Potential research avenues new fundamental insights on the aims to deliver higher performing involve the use of the synthesised molecular and nanoscopic level to materials at a lower cost than can be catalysts with supercritical solvents develop feasible leads for the design achieved by conventional top-down (high-pressure chemistry in batch of new catalytic chemical routes and modification. The goal of this project reactors) or as novel electrode processes. For us to even approach a is to use fundamental insights from materials for electrochemical “sustainable” existence, such that the defect engineering and rational hydrodeoxygenation. Analyses of ecosphere exists in a “steady state” crystal-chemical design to synthesise model systems using low molecular able to support our current lifestyle, a new materials from complementary weight biomolecules (alcohols, 4- to 10-fold increase in the resource components that exhibit the desired ketones, sugars, etc) will also be used efficiency of existing production properties, thereby yielding more to elucidate reaction pathways and processes is necessary. Our group effective overall solar photocatalytic evaluate and catalytic performance. offers the following projects around water splitting catalysts. This project This project may be offered jointly this theme. may be offered jointly with Prof with A/Prof Tony Masters and Dr Brendan Kennedy or A/Prof Chris Alex Yuen. Supervisor: Prof Thomas Next-generation composite Ling. Supervisor: Prof Thomas Maschmeyer. photocatalysts for solar energy Maschmeyer. capture: This project aims to prepare State of the art magnesium new photocatalysts that capture Biomass waste for a renewable batteries: This project aims to build and convert solar energy to stored future: The Chemical Industry is a safe, scalable as well as high power energy by directly splitting water into highly reliant on aromatic chemicals and energy density magnesium oxygen and hydrogen, a perfectly for the production of plastics, textiles, battery with potentially twice the clean and renewable fuel. The project pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, energy density of the current best will use a “bottom-up” nanoscale etc. These are currently sourced commercial batteries. By harnessing approach, in which compounds (such from dwindling fossil reserves. the power of self-assembly and using as perovskites and transition metal Lignocellulosic (woody) biomass mechano-chemical syntheses, novel nitrides) with different chemical is the largest source of renewable battery materials will be prepared and electronic properties, but with aromatic species in the form of lignin: and used for the fabrication of compatible crystal structures in at the aromatic polymer component of electrodes. In conjunction, safer and least one dimension, are assembled wood that is responsible for a large better performing non-Grignard- in a single synthetic step to form a portion of its structural strength and based electrolytes will be prepared. well-ordered composite. By making durability. This project will synthesize Testing and optimisation of these composites of compounds the band non-precious metal carbide and new and integrated materials in coin gaps - crucial to capturing light - nitride composite catalysts for the cell assemblies will then form the and surfaces -crucial to evolving reductive conversion and upgrading basis of fundamental studies into the way these batteries operate and direct optimisation studies to improve Mg-battery performance. This project may be offered jointly with A/Prof Tony Masters and Dr Alex Yuen. Supervisor: Prof Thomas Maschmeyer.
Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 16 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ANTHONY MASTERS
Room 419
T: +61 2 9351 5565
E: [email protected] W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/research/opportunities/ opportunities/1492
Our research is aimed at increasing resource efficiency of Ferrocene-based Battery–Supercapacitor hybrids existing processes and the invention of novel catalysts for Ferrocene, the archetypical metallocene, was first reported industrial chemical transformations. For example, in 1951. Since its discovery, ferrocene has been the subject fundamental studies of workhorse reactions, such as of an enormous amount of study but has found few real- catalytic hydrogenations and improved catalysts for world applications. Stable, cheap, long life batteries and hydrocarbon oxidations. In the energy sphere, we are super-capacitors are the key to the roll-out of renewable developing magnesium batteries and hydrogenase mimics energy technologies. Building on our extensive expertise in for hydrogen production. metallocene synthesis and in collaboration with industry, this project will involve the synthesis of novel ferrocene derivatives, their incorporation into half cells and batteries Cellulose Valorisation of Lignin and evaluation of their performance as part of the new Lignin is a major (and generation of energy storage devices. underutilised) component of This project may be biomass. The depolymerisation Waste offered jointly with Lignin and hydrodeoxygenation of waste Prof Thomas lignin would provide an alternative Maschmeyer, Dr Alex Yuen source of industrially relevant hydrocarbons and Dr Max Roemer. and divert a waste stream into valuable materials. Supervisor: This process has been done successfully using supercritical A/Prof Anthony Masters conditions, though not with mild conditions. This project aims to develop a flow-electrocatalytic route to convert Bimetallic catalysis lignin derivatives to BTEX in high yield and selectivity under The hydrogenase enzymes, with iron and nickel at their active mild conditions. This project may be offered jointly with Prof sites, are able to perform hydrogenation far more efficiently Thomas Maschmeyer, Dr Alex Yuen, and Dr Christopher than any man-made process to date. This project aims to Barnett. Supervisor: A/Prof Anthony Masters synthesise functional models of bio-inspired catalysts to + hydrogenate and interconvert H2 to H . Nickel Catalysed Olefin Isomerisation This project may be offered jointly with Prof Thomas The isomerisation of aryl olefins using the precatalyst Maschmeyer, Dr Alex Yuen, and Dr Christopher Barnett. Ni(P(OEt)3)4 presents as autocatalytic. The mechanism and Supervisor: A/Prof Anthony Masters scope of this rare reaction type are not yet fully understood. An approach to accessing efficient catalysts is by designing An opportunity exists to learn a wide variety of techniques these scaffolds so that they can host two metals including synthesis, air-sensitive chemistry, complex analysis, simultaneously. Having two metals in close proximity to each- and modelling. This project may be offered jointly with Prof other (ca. 3.5 Å), has been shown to significantly improve the Thomas Maschmeyer, Dr Alex Yuen, and Dr Christopher catalytic activity. However, in many cases the reasons for this Barnett. Supervisor: A/Prof Anthony Masters enhancement are not straight-forward, and this enhancement can be significantly greater L than predicted. Our work is Ni L L L concentrated on H+ investigating the individual R R L = P(OEt)3 design effects to understand the factors that provide the optimum beneficial cooperative effects. Collaboration with Dr Indrek Pernik and Dr Max Roemer Supervisor: A/Prof Anthony Masters. Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 17 A/PROF SIEGBERT ‘SIGGI’ SCHMID
Room 412B
T: +61 2 9351 4196
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/siegbert-schmid.html
My research interests are both in Chemistry Education Supervisor: A/Prof. Siggi Schmid with other members of and Functional Materials Chemistry. Chemistry Education the Chemistry Education and Communication Research research projects are designed to improve our Theme understanding of how we best support student learning, in the widest possible sense. My group also focuses on Sustainable energy storage developing novel and improved ceramic materials for use Rechargeable lithium ion batteries are widely used in in a range of technological applications. portable electronics and hybrid or electric vehicles. Also, producing energy through sustainable means requires All projects on offer are student-centred, i.e. the direction cheap and efficient storage to maximise the benefits. these projects take will be based on your interests and Compounds that can reversibly insert lithium have strengths. potential to be used in rechargeable lithium ion batteries. Our current program looks at a range of suitable Inclusive Learning by Design compounds from defect perovskites to spinels and olivine At the School of Chemistry, we aim to build an inclusive type structures. This project aims to synthesise target culture for staff and students. We have embraced compounds and to examine their chemical and changes in the undergraduate curriculum that offer electrochemical lithium intercalation behaviour. The diverse pathways for science students. products will be examined using X-ray and neutron Projects in this domain will develop, for example, diffraction at both national and overseas facilities. experimental procedures that allow students who are This project is in collaboration with Professor H. blind or low vision, to work in the laboratory Ehrenberg, KIT, Germany and Dr William Brant, Uppsala independently and empower them to be active University, Sweden. participants in their learning. Further projects can be Supervisor: A/Prof. Siggi Schmid. designed with interested students. Modulations and other Challenges Assessment Design Electrode materials in rechargeable Li- or Na-ion With increased emphasis on graduate qualities @Sydney batteries, that follow a solid-solution mechanism, change and nationally, and moving from aspirational to composition over very large ranges while maintaining verifiable, it is essential that we confirm that our their structure type. This is reminiscent of assessments are fit for purpose or adapt them if they are compositionally and displacively flexible systems that not. We developed a framework to do this in form incommensurate composite structures. While the straightforward fashion. compounds exist in 3D, their structure descriptions need higher dimensional space. Is that for you?
Figure 1. Schematic of electrode, with changing lithium concentration. Lithium ions are located where the modulation function (vertical centre) has its maxima.
Figure 1. Two parts assessment: Is the targeted learning outcome covered in the assessment (you would hope so!), and is it weighted heavily enough in the marking scheme to confirm attainment of it? Applying this scheme will allow you to classify assessments and in doing so, important lessons can be learned for assessment design. 18
self-assembled nanomaterials
Research areas • Nanoscale interactions in materials and interfaces • “Smart” energy-efficient materials • Molecular assembly in complex fluids and at interfaces • Nanostructured functional surfaces, polymer nanoparticles and nano-systems
Self-assembled nanomaterials researchers: • Professor Phil Gale • Dr Toby Hudson • Dr Girish Lakhwani • Dr Markus Muellner • Associate Professor Chiara Neto • Dr Derrick Roberts • Professor Greg Warr • Dr Mark White • Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper 19 PROFESSOR PHILIP GALE
Room 209D
T: +61 2 9351 4813
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/ our-people/ academic-staff/ philip-gale.html
Work in the Gale group on molecular homeostasis and induce cell death assays performed in lipid bilayer recognition involves the design and (apoptosis), hence these drug-like models. supervisor: Professor Philip synthesis of smart molecules for use molecules have been conceived as Gale. as receptors, transporters or sensors potential anti-cancer agents. More for ionic (in our group frequently recently, a direct correlation between Thiourea MOFs as stimuli- anionic) or neutral species. Design the cytotoxicity and increased responsive bulk anion is at the heart of our work – we intracellular chloride concentration transporters: Synthetic small are frequently inspired by biological mediated by synthetic anion molecule anion transporters that can systems (but not limited by them), and transporters was established (see carry chloride, bicarbonate or HCl we ultimately design and make new Nat. Chem. 2014, 6, 885-892 and across lipid bilayers are promising molecules to explore a wide range of Nat. Chem. 2017, 9, 667-675). In this anticancer drugs because they can molecular geometries and functional project, new synthetic ionophores will perturb ionic and/or pH gradients groups. be developed for targeted organelle in cells. Toxicity to normal cells is a ion transport properties to gain new major concern for their therapeutic Electrogenic chloride selective insight into cellular processes induced applications and can be avoided transporters for cystic fibrosis by the ionophores. The targeting through employing transporters treatment: The development of small- strategy is to exploit the specificity which can ‘switch on’ its activity at molecule synthetic transmembrane of pH and/or membrane composition the cancer cell. In this project, you anion transporters for potential future in each organelles. supervisor: will design and synthesise MOFs built use in channel replacement therapy for Professor Philip Gale. from anion transporters and benign the treatment of diseases caused by transition metals. These MOFs will dysregulation of anion transport such Stimuli-responsive anions lock the transporters in an inactive as cystic fibrosis (CF), and in treating transporters for active cancer state and are designed to cancer by perturbing chemical targeting: Synthetic small molecules ‘disintegrate’ in when reaching cancer gradients within cells, thus triggering that can carry chloride, bicarbonate or cells. This will allow therapeutic apoptosis, is an area of intense current HCl across lipid bilayers are promising targeting of cancer cells while interest. CF is a recessive genetic anticancer drugs because they can simultaneously minimising toxicity condition caused by dysregulation of perturb ionic and/or pH gradients towards normal cells. The project will anion transport through the CFTR in cells. Toxicity to normal cells is a involve organic synthesis, X-ray anion channel in epithelial cell major concern for their therapeutic crystallography, spectroscopic study of membranes. Chloride flux through the applications. In this project, you receptor-anion interactions, and CFTR channel is impaired in CF, will design and synthesise anion membrane transport. Supervisor: resulting in chronic lung disease in most transporters that can target cancer Professor Philip Gale and Dr Lauren CF patients. In this project, we will cells and minimise toxicity towards Macreadie. normal cells. Compounds contain a build on our work (see Chem 2016, 1, Please feel free to contact me to learn cleavable linkage will be designed that 127-146) to develop synthetic more about these and other projects are originally inactive but undergo transporters with better chloride available. selectivity (over H+/OH-) in a biological chemical transformation and become relevant liposomal model. supervisor: activated by cancer makers or cancer- Professor Philip Gale. specific environmental to facilitate anion transport in cancer cells. The Intracellular organelle-specific project will involve organic synthesis, ionophores: Synthetic anion spectroscopic study of receptor-anion transporters can disrupt cellular ion interactions, and membrane transport 20 DR TOBY HUDSON
Room 456
T: +61 2 9036 7648
W:https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/toby-hudson.html
The group’s research involves the computer simulation of Materials chemistry complex materials, concentrating on issues of structure Project 3. Building billion year old glass in a day and dynamics. Most of the projects involve Experimentalists have created a material which is computational experiments, but all can be done without extremely stable compared to normal bulk glasses, previous experience of programming. and is equivalent in most respects to a glass which Predicting and designing the structures made by the self- has been aged for billions of years. This is done using assembly of nanoparticles into metamaterials is a key physical vapour deposition of a warm thin film which requirement for a new generation of advanced allows molecules the flexibility to search for stable materials. Many fundamental questions are still open. locations before they get stuck. In this project, you I am also interested in projects related to educational will simulate this process and the materials it tools and knowledge representation in Chemistry. creates.
Chemistry education Project 1. Asking unsearchable questions in chemistry. Mathematical chemistry Project 4. What is it about the shape of a particle With the sudden interest in online learning and that determines its packing porosity? assessment due to the Covid-19 pandemic, chemistry Some particle shapes fill space better than others, educators across the world are rapidly designing open- but when they self-assemble, they all try to do the book online assessments including examinations that best they can. In some applications this is good, and aim to test chemistry knowledge and learning in others it is bad. Suppose you want to crystallize outcomes. colloidal particles, but you want to generate a material with a high porosity. What shapes should Most modern students are digital natives. Could they you consider using? pass chemistry with Google alone? What kinds of questions most effectively differentiate between We have found that particle properties like learned chemistry student and Googlebores? symmetries, concavity, and aspect ratio all play a role in how dense they can get. But so far we cannot Materials chemistry explain why some shapes pack in an unusual Project 2. What is the connection between random complex pattern whereas others are quite simple. packings and crystalline packings? Self assembly Jammed random packings of particles play an important role in many industrial applications including Co-Supervisor: Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper the stability of mining stockpiles, the safety of pebble bed nuclear reactors, and the stability of amorphous Project 5. Porous nanoparticle superlattices for thin films. But there is even still wide disagreement on catalysis and sensing how to define a random packing. This project will investigate in what ways the random packings of a Project 6. Phase Behaviour of Janus Rods and series of different particles are related to the ideal Helices crystal structures of those same particles.
Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 21 DR GIRISH LAKHWANI
Room 358
T: +61 2 9351 5783
W:https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our -people/academic-staff/girish-lakhwani.html
Molecular Photophysics research group is a part of Polariton laser: Electrically injected organic the ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science semiconductor laser remains a Holy Grail in light (ACEx), whose primary mission is to manipulate the emitting devices. Unlike conventional lasing, polariton way light energy is absorbed, transported and lasing does not require population inversion, instead transformed in advanced molecular materials. Our needing only strong coupling between the exciton key focus is on investigating optoelectronic properties state and a cavity photons. In this project, you will of novel nanoscale semiconductor materials for fabricate and characterise cavity devices to identify organic solar cells, optical switches and lasers. next-generation lasing materials. A project variant involving industrial collaboration is possible. EXCITON SCIENCE Organic photovoltaics: π-conjugated materials (CMs) offer cheap solution processible alternatives to silicon We are heavily Studying one molecule at a time: in organic solar cells (photovoltaics). In this project, invested in understanding molecular parameters that you will fabricate organic solar cells using a range of underpin excitonic behaviour in a range of donor and acceptor materials and geometries aimed optoelectronic devices including LEDs, exciton logic at improving device efficiency and stability. gates and spin switches. An exciton is a coulombically bound electron-hole pair that is generated in a CHIRALITY AT A NANOSCALE material either by light absorption or charge injection. As the size of devices decreases, single molecules dominate optical processes such as Spectroscopy using superchiral light: Detection of fluorescence blinking that causes emission to molecular chirality is vital for varied applications in randomly switch on and off. In this project, we will pharmaceuticals, sensors and displays. Circularly investigate blinking dynamics in functional materials polarised light is chiral in nature and is used to detect using single molecule spectroscopy and identify ways chiral molecules, however, the technique often fails in which we can tailor this behaviour towards because the light is much larger than molecular different kinds of device operations. dimensions and generates a weak optical response. In this project, we will controllably generate highly twisted superchiral light to enhance the optical response thereby increasing the molecular footprint for high precision detection.
Chiroptical phenomena in semiconductor materials: Energy and charge transport in functional materials depend strongly on their molecular packing (also known as morphology) in thin films and nanocrystals that isn’t well understood. In this project, you will perform state-of-the-art chiroptical spectroscopy experiments to characterize nanoaggregate morphology and identify structural parameters that dictate their molecular self-assembly.
We are always working on new ideas, not all are listed here. Drop me a line if you wish to know more! 22 DR MARKUS MÜLLNER
Room 454
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/markus-muellner.html
Our group is interested in finding intuitive and new Mimicking viruses ways to access unprecedented polymeric and hybrid Virus particles are multifunctional particulates allowing nanostructures. Our aim is to produce multifunctional them to interact with cell membranes with high nanoscale materials for applications in catalysis, energy specificity and efficacy. Polymer science allows the and nanomedicine. Polymer science provides the ideal synthesis of complex nanomaterials and is expected to playground for creative materials design. produce synthetic versions of nature’s elaborate ‘cargo You can find more information on polymer architectures carrier systems’. In this project, we are investigating and their emerging applications by browsing through new means to produce functional nanoparticles our publications at polymernanostructures.com. capable of mimicking the properties and performance My team is very interdisciplinary and polymer science in of viruses. This is collaboration with UC San Diego. general connects many areas of chemistry. As polymers Supervisor: Dr Markus Müllner find use in materials, they thus also feed into engineering and pharma disciplines.I honour the Designing polymers through light and catalysis diverse interests of students and can customise research In recent years, we have developed new synthetic projects to specific interests or areas of application. The methods to produce polymers in a more below provides some examples of projects currently on environmentally benign way by using light-induced offer in my team. catalysis and bismuth oxide. This allowed us to recycle Getting nanomaterials into shape catalysts, produce polymers in water, as well as The application of spherical nanoparticles in biomedical enabled new polymeric hybrid materials, such as fields has been studied extensively over the past polymer-peptide conjugates in one step. This project decades. However, recent studies suggest beneficial looks at expanding the scope of this work to synthesise interactions of non-spherical nanoparticles with chain transfer agents for polymerisation that are biological materials and tissue. In addition, theoretical traditionally difficult to access by conventional organic studies predict advantageous cell association for chemistry. cylindrically- or disc-shaped particles. In this project, we Supervisor: Dr Markus Müllner will build on our findings and develop a new Sensing made easy through polymeric scaffolds nanoparticle platform to study the efficacy and Polymers are an attractive scaffold for responsive usefulness of differently shaped polymers in biomedical sensors as they can be decorated with multiple applications. binding/recognition sites, therefore increasing the Supervisor: Dr Markus Müllner selectivity and/or binding affinity for complex analytes. Providing materials with structure This project will involve the synthesis of responsive Many properties of functional materials depend polymers functionalised with receptors and critically on their effective surface areas. In this project, fluorophores that can be applied to environmental or we will use a newly developed polymer-hybrid method biological studies. This project will involve polymer to synthesise nanostructured materials with very high synthesis and photophysical studies. Supervisors: Dr surface areas and very efficient internal topologies. We Markus Müllner and A/Prof. Liz New will target materials with applications as electrode materials in solid-state batteries and solar cells, for which nanostructuring has been predicted to enhance performance. The project will involve synthesis, Please feel free to contact me to learn more about characterisation on length scales from the atomic these and other projects available. through the nanoscale to bulk surface area, and the construction of working batteries for testing under real working conditions. Supervisors: Dr Markus Müllner and Prof. Chris Ling 23 PROFESSOR CHIARA NETO
Room 349
T: +61 2 9351 2752
W: https://neto.sydney.edu.au
Our area of research is physical chemistry of Liquid-infused surfaces interfaces, a multi-disciplinary field spanning the Liquid repellence is important for energy efficiency chemistry, physics, nanoscience and materials and benefits many applications, such as self- engineering. We focus on phenomena that occur cleaning, anti-fouling and anti-bacterial coatings. The when liquids are confined on the micro-scale, such as ability for liquids to be repelled and slip over in microfluidics, and on designing surfaces that have surfaces without leaving contamination behind can advanced functional properties. Research projects be enhanced if the surface has liquid-like properties, are available in these areas: as in the figure below. Structured coatings for water capture We design Project 3 polymer surfaces that collect water from the The Honours project involves synthesising surfaces atmosphere, as part of a multidisciplinary Sydney with liquid-like properties without the use of nano- Nano Grand Challenge project (ACWA) involving and micro-structure but using liquid-like thin academics from across the University. The surfaces polymer layers grafted to a solid substrate. Part of are nanostructured, highly porous polymer films, this project could involve a synthetic component in that can be applied over large areas (figure below). collaboration with Dr Markus Muellner. The produced coatings enable the delocalised collection of clean water from the atmosphere A new family of self-assembled monolayers without any energy input and no moving parts. Our group has recently discovered a new family of Website of ACWA: nano-acwa.sydney.edu.au; ABC self-assembled monolayers that form on oxide The Acceleration Documentary Episode 4: surfaces, through halogen bonding, an https://iview.abc.net.au/show/great- intermolecular interaction less known but similar to acceleration/series/1/video/DO1845H004S00 hydrogen bonding. The self-assembled monolayer Project 1 effectively turns the surface properties of glass into The Honours project will involve experiments those of Teflon and can lead to sophisticated relating how surface energy (chemical composition) assembly of soft matter. and structure (topography, roughness) of the porous Project 4 polymer coatings affects the efficiency of water This Honours project explores the potential of these collection. Data will be collected both in a controlled monolayers of extremely low surface energy to be lab environment and on the prototype located on used to enhance dropwise condensation. the roof of the SNH building. Project 2 Please feel free to contact A second Honours project focuses on simulating @netogroup me to learn more about water droplet roll-off behaviour over structured these and other projects surfaces, using modelling software. In collaboration @ChiaraOz available. with Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper. 24 Dr Derrick Roberts
Room 442 T: +61 2 8627 4112 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/derrick-roberts.html
Our research program centres on drug molecules can be converted architectures. In this project, we will designing self-assembled molecular to prodrug forms by ‘capping’ prepare polymers with Schiff-base materials that undergo controlled nucleophilic groups with “self- ligands that self-assemble into morphological transformations in immolative” linkers, which are cleaved metallogels and helical fibrils in the response to external signals (e.g., in elimination cascades resembling a presence of transition metal ions. light, pH, biochemical cues). We burning fuse. In this project, we will Metallo-Schiff-base complexes can use supramolecular and dynamic develop a new type of self-immolative undergo dynamic-covalent exchange covalent interactions to explore linker using ‘click’ reactions between reactions when exposed to electron- self-assembly phenomena spanning azides and alkynes, and study their rich amines. This property will be used from small molecule recognition up release kinetics. These linkers will then to construct self-healing assemblies to microphase separation of block be adapted to self-immolative polymer copolymers, with the goal of building systems for achieving intracellular that can undergo stimuli-induced ‘smart’ nanomaterials that sense their drug delivery. Supervisor: Dr Derrick rearrangements through in situ environments and produce distinct Roberts. imine exchange reactions (Fig. 1b). physicochemical responses. Supervisor: Dr Derrick Roberts. Dynamic-covalent metallopolymers: Metal-ligand coordination can be Please get in touch to learn more ‘Transformersomes’ — shape- used to control the self-assembly of about these and other projects shifting polymer nanostructures: synthetic polymers into supramolecular available. Amphiphilic polymers can self- assemble into an impressive spectrum of nanoscale architectures that behave in intriguing ways; from catalysis to cellular interactions. In this project, we aim to design self- assembled polymer nanostructures (polymersomes) that undergo shape transformations when exposed to light (Fig 1a). These transformable polymersomes (‘transformersomes’) will be able to express new physical properties in response to complex environmental changes, e.g., in living tissue during wound healing. This project will be undertaken in collaboration with Dr Markus Muellner’s group. Supervisor: Dr Derrick Roberts.
‘Clickety-Split’ — click-activated self-immolative prodrugs: Prodrugs are pharmacologically inactive molecules that are converted to their Fig. 1 (a) Transformersomes: a proposed network of nanostructure transformations active forms by biological stimuli achieved through stimuli-triggered degradation of block copolymers. (b) Dynamic-covalent near or at their target sites. Normal metallopolymers: dynamic imine exchange can induce stiffening of metallogel networks. 25 PROFESSOR GREG WARR
Room 310
T: +61 2 9351 2106
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/gregory-warr.html
We investigate the fundamental question of how macroscopic properties emerge from the nanoscale structure and dynamics of soft matter – from ionic liquids to micelles, liquid crystals, microemulsions, biomaterials, polymers and 2D nanomaterials. We have a particular focus on ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents as novel, nanostructured, and environmentally friendly solvents with potential for economical scale-up. Ionic liquids (ILs) are not just salts that melt at or near room temperature. They are complex, dynamic nanostructures unlike conventional molecular liquids, making them extraordinary components for as solvents for chemical reactions or formulations (see Chem. Rev., 2015, 115, 6357.) Deep eutectic solvents are hybrid liquids that contain both ionic and non-volatile molecular components. We are exploring their nanostructure, and using this knowledge to design new kinds of soft materials. Our work makes extensive use of advanced neutron and X-ray beam techniques in our laboratory and at major international facilities, complemented by NMR, microscopy and thermal analysis.
Soft Hybrid Nanomaterials Self-Assembly Micelle or nanoparticle? You be the judge. We have recently discovered new ways of making non-aqueous lyotropic liquid crystals and other New polymer preparation techniques allow us to nanostructured soft materials by combining move continuously in synthetic space from small, concepts from self-assembly and deep eutectic rapidly-equilibrating micelle-forming surfactants to solvents. This project will explore the effect of kinetically-trapped, nanoparticle-forming amphiphilic incorporating amphiphilic components like copolymers through amphiphilic “co-oligomers.” surfactants and lipids into deep eutectic mixtures to Using stopped flow and other kinetic techniques we transform them from simple liquids into liquid will explore how molecular structure affects crystals, viscoelastic gels and microemulsions. Their equilibration rate of micelles, and use this to design, properties will then be explored for a variety of control and preserve nanostructure while applications ranging from novel lithium battery engineering dynamics are also critical for controlled electrolytes to hyperconcentrated formulations. release applications for drug, perfume or nutrient delivery. (Langmuir, 2014, 30, 7986–7992).
Exobiology: Life Beyond the Goldilocks Zone
While it is widely believed that liquid water is essential for life to arise, this is an as-yet unproven conjecture. In this project we will explore which of the preconditions for life can be met in extreme and nonaqueous environments such as the ethane lakes of Titan or deep eutectic mixtures of non-volatile salts. Can we make cell membranes, and how does molecular recognition and replication operate in these environments? (Soft Matter 2017, 13, 1364- 1370)
Supervisor: Professor Greg Warr 26 DR ASAPH WIDMER-COOPER
Room 360
T: +61 2 9114 1141
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/asaph-widmer- cooper.html
As part of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science Formation and Stability of Printable Solar Cells (ACEx), we use computer simulations and mathematical models to understand the behavior of existing materials Solar cells based on metal halide perovskites and to design new materials for solar energy capture, represent the fastest advancing solar technology to sensing, and security. Typically, this involves studying the date and have the potential to allow the manufacture structural and dynamic properties of complex fluids and of lightweight, high-efficiency cells via low-cost and the beautiful structures that appear spontaneously in energy-efficient solution processes. The efficiency of these systems through the self-organisation of molecular such solar cells depends strongly on the crystallinity of and colloidal components. the films that are formed, yet we understand surprisingly little about the mechanisms by which they Assembly of Nanorods for Solar Energy Applications are formed and degraded. In this project, you will use computer simulations to study how metal halide Rod-shaped nanoparticles have anisotropic optical and perovskites grow and dissolve in solution. charge transport properties that make them attractive candidates for use in printable solar cells and Supervisor: Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper luminescent solar concentrators. In this project, you will use computer simulations to study how such nanorods Tuning Surface Wettability and Roll-off can be assembled into structures that are optimal for light capture and charge separation. This will yield design Being able to tune the wettability of surfaces is crucial rules that can be used by our experimental collaborators for a wide range of applications including self-cleaning within ACEx to create such assemblies in the laboratory. paints and water capture. Plants and insects have devised many ingenious strategies to control Supervisor: Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper wettability through the use of chemical and topographical patterning. In this project, you will use computer simulations to study how surface Using Molecular Hairs to Dynamically Tune Nanoparticle topography and chemistry affect droplet shape and Properties roll-off, including studying how infusing the surface with an immiscible liquid can dramatically alter these Ligand molecules that bind to the surface of inorganic properties. This project will involve collaboration with nanoparticles are used to direct their growth during on-going experimental work. synthesis and play an essential role in keeping the particles from randomly aggregating in solution. Supervisors: Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper and Prof Recently, it has become apparent that these ligands can Chiara Neto also order on the particle surface in response to a change in temperature or solvent conditions, thus dramatically changing how the particles interact with one another Please feel free to contact me to learn more about (e.g. see ACS Nano 2018, 12, 5969). In this project, you these and other projects available. will use molecular dynamics simulations and spectroscopy to investigate this order/disorder transition and how it affects the optical properties of the particles.
Supervisors: Dr Asaph Widmer-Cooper and Dr Girish Lakhwani 27
molecular innovations in health
Research areas • Chemical signalling, neurotransmission • Ageing, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases • Diagnostics and therapeutics (“theranostics”) • Drug design/discovery, biosensing/imaging, drug delivery
Functional energy materials researchers: • Dr Samuel Banister • Associate Professor Ron Clarke • Dr Jonathan Danon • Professor Kate Jolliffe • Dr William Jorgensen • Professor Michael Kassiou • Dr Amandeep Kaur • Dr Yu Heng Lau • Professor Peter Lay • Dr Xuyu Liu • Associate Professor Chris McErlean • Dr Alice Motion • Associate Professor Liz New • Professor Richard Payne • Professor Lou Rendina • Professor Peter Rutledge • Dr Mark White • Dr Shelley Wickham 28 Dr samuel banister
Brain and Mind Centre
T: +61 2 9351 0805 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/samuel-banister.html
Our research involves the development (Psychology) and Prof. Mary Collins rodents (agonists) and utility in patient- of small molecules targeting G protein- (Chebib) (Pharmacy). derived pluripotent stem cell models of coupled receptors and ion channels for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases the treatment of neurological diseases. Phytocannabinoid derivatives as (antagonists). We are developing each Our interests are rare and orphan dis- GPR55 antagonists: The cannabis of these classes as new cannabinoid eases not addressed by the pharma- plant produces more than 100 unique therapeutics with reduced adverse ceutical industry. Using lead structures molecules, with two cannabinoids effect profiles. This project is a collabo- from natural product chemical space, approved for clinical use; Marinol® for ration with Dr. Thomas Wei and Prof. as well as public database mining with chemotherapy-induced nausea and Joseph Wu (Stanford University, USA). internally developed cheminformatics vomiting, and Epidiolex® for Dravet tools, we conduct lead optimisation syndrome. Despite the clinical utility Profiling new psychoactive using iterative development cycles of plant cannabinoids, the historical substances: In the past decade, more involving molecular modelling, chemical prohibition of cannabis has hindered than 450 new psychoactive substances synthesis, and preclinical pharmacol- research into the therapeutic potential (NPS)—novel recreational drugs ogy to develop clinical candidates. of this diverse natural product created by tweaking the molecular class. We have identified several structure of traditional drugs—have Molecular medicine for mutant phytocannabinoids functioning as been identified as designer stimulants GABA-A receptor genetic epilepsies: non-selective GPR55 antagonists (e.g. N-ethylpentylone), hallucinogens A growing number of specific with efficacy in mouse models of (e.g. 25I-NBOMe), and cannabinoids mutations in the subunits comprising epilepsy. This project will involve the (e.g. AMB-FUBINACA). Very little is pentameric GABA-A receptors that physicochemical optimisation of these known about the biological activity of lead to dysfunction of the ion channel cannabinoid GPR55 antagonist leads most of these substances, and they are being identified as the cause of for improved target selectivity, in vivo are increasingly associated with serious distinct, severe epilepsy syndromes. potency, and pharmacokinetic profile. adverse effects, including death. However, many patients are refractory This project is in collaboration with A/ We are proactively characterising to multiple antiepileptic drugs Prof. Jonathon Arnold (Pharmacology). the chemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of systematic libraries Using concatenated constructs of Peripherally-restricted cannabinoids of emerging NPS to facilitate early precisely defined GABA-A mutants in ligands: Cannabinoid receptors are detection and mitigate harms caused xenopus oocytes along with electro- expressed abundantly throughout by the most dangerous NPS (see N. physiology, we have demonstrated that the brain, but also in the periphery. Engl. J. Med. 2017, 376, 235). The common antiepileptic drugs are unable The clinically-approved cannabinoid Psychoactives Surveillance Consortium to restore normal functioning at these antagonist rimonabant was withdrawn and Analysis Network (PSCAN, USA) receptors. In this system, several can- from the market owing to adverse has already detected three new NPS in nabinoids restore function in at least effects associated with its central ner- clinical toxicology casework using this some of the mutant receptors where vous system penetration (CNS), while innovative methodology. Collaborators other classes of clinical antiepileptics brain-permeable cannabinoid agonists include Prof. Roy Gerona (UCSF, are ineffective. This project with involve like tetrahydrocannabinol produce USA), Prof. Michelle Glass (University the optimisation of a cannabinoid lead intoxication. By rational modification of Otago, NZ), Prof. Mark Connor for potency, efficacy, and fortification of the lipophilicity, polar surface area, (Macquarie University), and Prof. Iain against first-pass metabolism. Our and number of hydrogen bond con- McGregor (Psychology). optimised candidate will be screened tributors, we have developed several in a mouse model of generated using cannabinoid agonists and antagonists Please feel free to contact Samuel to CRISPR-Cas9 technology. Collabora- with limited ability to cross the blood- learn more! Additional details are avail- tors include Dr. Dr Nathan Absalom brain barrier. Peripherally-restricted able on our website: https://sydney. (Pharmacy), Dr Michael Bowen cannabinoids have analgesic activity in edu.au/lambert/ 29 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR RON CLARKE
Room 517
T: +61 2 9351 4406
E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/ronald-clarke.html
Work in the Clarke research group focuses on MEMBRANE INTERACTION OF SMALL biological cell membranes, on the lipids and MOLECULES CAPABLE OF ALLEVIATING proteins of which they’re composed and diseases BATTEN’S DISEASE (In collaboration with Dr which arise from membrane dysfunction. A Charles Cranfield, UTS) particular interest of our group for many years has Batten’s disease is a hereditary neurodegenerative been ion pumps, which are involved in e.g. nerve disease causing a disruption in lysosomal function function, muscle contraction, digestion. Our within cells. Lysosomes are basically the cell’s research is multidisciplinary in nature, overlapping recycling depot. Biological molecules, which have chemistry, biology and physics. become damaged by whatever means, are transported into the lysosome to be broken down into simpler MOLECULAR ORIGIN OF RAPID-ONSET building blocks and then returned to the cytoplasm DYSTONIA PARKINSONISM for incorporation into new molecules. In Batten’s Details of project Rapid-onset dystonia Parkinsonism disease this process is disrupted, causing the (RDP) is a rare form of Parkinson’s disease afflicting accumulation of waste material within the lysosome. children which is triggered by physical or emotional In contrast to many other cells, the body is not able to stress. It doesn’t respond to normal treatments used in regenerate damaged neurons, thus making the the aged, such as dopamine. The disease is caused by nervous system particularly susceptible. Batten’s mutation of the α3 isoform of the catalytic subunit of disease is caused by a mutation in the protein + + the Na ,K -ATPase. The mutation causes an battenin, an integral membrane protein found in the impairment of the enzyme’s ability to discriminate lysosomal membrane of all eukaryotes. In 2018 it + + between Na and K ions. The purpose of this project was shown that treatment of battenin-deficient mice is to develop a fundamental understanding at the with the sterol carbenoxolone caused a reduction in molecular level of the conformational changes of the disease symptoms. This was proposed to be due to + + Na ,K -ATPase allowing it to alter its selectivity binding to the lysosomal membrane, altering its + + between Na and K , and how these conformational physical properties. The purpose of this project is to changes are affected by mutations responsible for the investigate the effect of carbenoxolone on membrane development of RDP. structure (e.g. fluidity, phase behaviour, electrostatics) and develop a molecular understanding of how it could benefit sufferers of Batten’s disease.
Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 30 dr jonathan danon
Room 508 T: +61 2 9351 3951 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/jonathan-danon.html
The goals of our research are RNA to perform a variety of functions. lead compounds that have been to discover new medicines for In healthy cells, it is primarily located shown to reduce stress granule the diagnosis and treatment of in the nucleus and helps regulate RNA prevalence and decrease the levels frontotemporal dementia (FTD). We processing. In unhealthy neuronal of toxic, aggregated TDP-43 in cells. use organic synthesis and medicinal and glial cells of large proportions Supervisor: Dr Jonathan Danon. chemistry expertise to design of FTD patients, TDP-43 is often and synthesise novel therapies to mislocalised to the cytosol and bundles Third generation PET tracers for combat FTD, which is a common into aggregates and stress granules, probing microglial activation: Microglial cause of early-onset dementia and leading to loss of normal protein activation is associated with immune neurodegeneration. Working within this function and neurotoxicity. response to neuronal injury and field will expose aspiring researchers plays a key role in the initiation and to a wide variety of organic chemistry Discovery of small-molecules that progression of FTD. Microglia express techniques, as well as enabling full bind to TDP-43 with high affinity the 18 kDa translocator protein participation in the early stages of and specificity still eludes chemists. (TSPO), which has consequently the drug discovery process. The Developing compounds which do become a target for development of projects summarised here can be this will lead to the rational design diagnostic imaging tracers for tailored to the specific interests of of a variety of new therapeutics, estimating microglial density. The the participant. Jon welcomes any ranging from new imaging agents (e.g. widely-used first-generation PET radiolabelled PET tracers) allowing for requests for more information. tracer [11C]PK-11195 exhibits high levels more accurate diagnosis of FTD, to of non-specific binding and thus low Introduction to FTD: FTD is a inhibitors that ameliorate the adverse signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), making common cause of early-onset effects of this protein aggregation. it of limited use in detecting subtle dementia, with near comparable This project will investigate fluctuations of TSPO expression. prevalence to Alzheimer’s disease structure-activity relationships of Second-generation ligands with (AD) for 45-55-year-olds. Diagnosis is potential TDP-43 binders, starting improved SNR (e.g. lead compound complicated due to its shared clinical from a 4-aminoquinoline-based lead [11C]DPA-713) have been developed in and pathological features with related compound which shows promising recent years, but by and large suffer neurodegenerative disorders such as activity. Supervisor: Dr Jonathan from undesirable binding affinity motor neurone disease (MND). FTD Danon. is characterised by rapid decline in variation within the population due to a behavioural habits and/or language Inhibition of TDP-43 stress granules: genetic variation in TSPO expression. and short survival and, despite our TDP-43 which builds up in the cytosol This project will continue work towards increased understanding of dementia- (often after mislocalisation from causing diseases, there are currently the nucleus) tends to amass into designing, synthesising, and testing no effective treatments or cures for aggregates and protective stress ligands which overcome both of these FTD on the market. With an ever-aging granules. It has been shown that hurdles, displaying high specificity and population, there is an urgent demand inhibiting the formation of these stress a “one-size-fits-all” binding affinity for reliable, unambiguous diagnostic granules can also reduce the number regardless of genetic polymorphism. methods and effective treatments for of TDP-43 aggregate inclusions in This represents an enticing challenge FTD to help alleviate these economic cells. The mechanism by which this in the search for effective third- and societal pressures. Our research occurs still needs further elucidation. generation TSPO PET tracers. focuses on a multi-pronged approach However, no small molecules that Supervisor: Dr Jonathan Danon, to addressing this problem. can achieve this safely have been Co-supervisor: Professor Michael approved for treating FTD. Kassiou. Targeting TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43): TDP-43 is a Work for this project will focus Please feel free to contact me to learn ubiquitously-expressed protein in on the design, synthesis, and more about these and other projects humans that binds to both DNA and structural optimisation of several available. 31 PROFESSOR KATE JOLLIFFE
Room 515
T: +61 2 9351 2297
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/ kate-jolliffe.html
My research group focuses on the design, synthesis and preparation of responsive fluorescent sensors to and investigation of the properties of functional understand the chemistry of the cell. These projects molecules. It spans a number of areas including (i) the will suit with an interest in synthesis and synthesis and investigation of small molecule mimics photophysical studies (UV-vis, fluorescence), and of Nature’s molecular receptors and enzymes could also include theoretical calculations and/or (supramolecular chemistry); (ii) the development of biological studies. new synthetic methods and (iii) application of these Supervisor (s): Kate Jolliffe and Liz New methods to the synthesis of both natural products and novel functional molecules. All projects involve Array-based sensing for biological studies: A key synthesis, with some also involving physical and/or current challenge in biology and medicine is the biological techniques.A number of collaborative measurement of chemical species within complex projects are also available. environments such as biological fluids. For example, subtle changes in enzyme expression can signal diseases such as cancer and arthritis. In this project, Anion receptors, sensors and transporters for we will explore fluorescent sensing techniques for environmental and biological applications: Anions play measuring disease markers, with the ultimate aim of many roles in areas as diverse as biology, medicine, clinical testing. In particular, we will utilise array-based catalysis and the environment, so artificial anion technologies, which can concurrently screen multiple receptors have numerous applications across all of samples and analytes. This project will involve organic these areas. However, the development of anion synthesis, photophysical studies, statistical analysis receptors that operate with high selectivity and affinity and testing of biological samples. under physiological and environmental conditions is a Supervisor (s): Kate Jolliffe and Liz New significant challenge. In this project you will design and build receptors targeted to a range of anionic species Selective sensors for phospholipids: Living cells such as sulfate and pyrophosphate and use these to synthesise and metabolise over 1000 different lipids, detect anion concentrations or move anions across which assemble to form bilayer membranes with lipid membranes. Projects are available in both developing compositions that differ across cell types, sub-cellular the synthesis of these complex molecular scaffolds and compartments and even within a single membrane in the evaluation of novel anion receptors, with the itself. However, the relevance of this vast structural ultimate goal of producing receptors that can be diversity and the function of each different lipid is not applied to selectively detect or separate anionic species yet understood. In order to provide information in the environment or in biological systems. These answering this important biological question, projects would suit students with an interest in either fluorescent probes that are selective towards different synthesis or techniques including the use of NMR, mass phospholipid headgroups are required. This project spec, UV-vis and fluorescence for the study of will involve the synthesis of novel sensors for molecular interactions. phospholipid headgroups such as phosphatidylcholine Supervisor (s): Kate Jolliffe and phosphatidylethanolamine. The selectivity of the sensors will be established in model membranes using New responsive sensors for biological sensing: The fluorescence spectroscopy, then selective sensors will field of fluorescent sensing has provided biological be evaluated in biological assays. researchers with tools to visualise organelles, proteins, Supervisor (s): Kate Jolliffe and chemical processes taking place within the cell. Projects in this area will involve designing fluorophores Please feel free to contact me to learn with improved chemical and biological properties, more about these and other projects available. 32 dr William Jorgensen
Room 516 T: +61 2 8627 8778 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/william-jorgensen.html
The stilnox paradox – targeting The project: The big question: Why are there no ion-channels to treat neurological Aim – Discover novel scientific tool glycine receptor modulators approved disease molecules and lead molecules for for the treatment of chronic pain? future development of selective a1-a1 The big problem: Stroke is the third The problem: It is difficult to rationally modulators, that will be devoid of largest killer and the leading cause of design molecules without either a hypnotic effects occurring via a1-g2 lasting disability, globally. According to ‘scaffold’ to build from (usually identified interaction. from a high throughput screen) or a the Stroke Foundation Australia, 65% crystal structure of the active binding of stroke sufferers are permanently Aim – Correlate in vitro pharmacology site of the receptor. disabled with 20% requiring with in vivo efficacy using animal institutionalisation. models of stroke and assess the The Solution: Amgen, last year published a crystal structure of the pharmacokinetic parameters of The “Eureka” moment: http:// glycine receptor with an allosteric promising lead candidates including www.abc.net.au/austory/i-am-sam- modulator bound to the receptor. opener/8598606 zolpidem Despite this, there has been little structure-activity-relationships ‘The Awakening’ – Sam (severely Supervisor: Dr William Jorgensen performed around this scaffold. disabled due to a series of strokes) (Possible dual supervision). was dosed with zolpidem (Stilnox) – a The project: clinically approved sleeping pill. For the Aim – Discover a library of CNS permeable compounds which act as next hour, Sam was awake, speaking No pain, the aim – targeting ion- potentiators of the GlyR and functioning virtually normally. channels to treat neurological disease Aim – Discover GlyR potentiators of The big question: How can a known The big problem: Neuropathic pain unique structures that are active in sleeping pill, ‘awaken the mind’? By affects 1 in 5 Australians. Less than animal models of neuropathic pain. modulating ion channels! half of these patients obtain clinically relevant pain relief. Supervisor: Dr William Jorgensen The next problem: Zolpidem is a (Possible dual supervision). hypnotic through its action on a1-g2 The “Eureka” moment: binding sites and therefore has Glycine receptors are inhibitory a gamut of negative side-effects neurotransmitters and have well (addiction, disillusion, sedation). documented roles in neuropathic pain.
Fig 3: Proposed modifications of AM-1488
Fig 1: A. Before stroke (normal brain), zolpidem modulates GABA by mainly activating synaptic a1bg2 receptors Please feel free to contact me to learn (phasic currents) as they possess an a1-g2 interface. Zolpidem is inactive at extrasynaptic GABAARs (tonic currents) as they lack an interface where potentiation can occur. B. From 2-weeks after stroke, a subunits are more about these projects at upregulated, increasing a1-a1 interfaces. C. Zolpidem modulates GABA tonic currents at neurons via extrasynaptic [email protected] GABAA receptors such as (a1)3(b3)2 which possess an a1-a1 interface that only become present following stroke. 33 PROFESSOR MICHAEL KASSIOU
Room 546
T: +61 2 9351 2745
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/michael-kassiou.html
The field of medicinal chemistry is a key component Neuroinflammation in the drug discovery process. In the Kassiou group, Immune cells in the brain can be activated in we use synthetic organic chemistry to design and response to various events, including infection or synthesise novel small molecules that target a traumatic brain injury, which in turn leads to range of diseases that affect the btain. The work in neuroinflammation followed by neurodegeneration our laboratories has led to spin-off companies and in several diseases. We develop small molecules that first-inhuman trials of drug candidates. The projects work against neuroinflammation as a treatment for below are only a sample of what we can offer, and these diseases. We also have a significant focus on projects can be tailored to suit the specific interests imaging the neuroinflammation process by of any prospective students. developing compounds for PET imaging. To achieve Treating Social Withdrawal this we focus on two targets: Translocator protein Conditions that commonly overlap with social (TSPO) and the purinergic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R). withdrawal (SW) include depression, autism, First-generation PET tracers for TSPO exhibit high addiction and social anxiety, among others. These levels of non-specific binding and thus low signal-to- might be considered as either the cause or the noise ratios (SNR), making them of limited use in symptoms of SW. We are designing compounds that detecting subtle fluctuations of TSPO expression. target the oxytocin receptor as a way of treating SW Second-generation ligands with improved SNR have to target multiple disease states. been developed in recent years but suffer from Oxytocin (OT) is a 9-amino acid cyclic peptide that undesirable binding affinity variation within the exerts prosocial effects in mammals through population due to a genetic variation in TSPO activation of the OT receptor. However, as an expression. This project will continue work towards oligopeptide it is a poor drug candidate and is not synthesising ligands which overcome both hurdles, brain permeable. This project involves the synthesis displaying high specificity and a “one-size-fits-all” of non-peptidic OT receptor agonists to elucidate binding affinity regardless of genetic polymorphism. how their chemical structure influences biological Supervisor: Professor Michael Kassiou. activity. Supervisor: Professor Michael Kassiou The P2X7R plays an essential role in inflammatory signalling as its activation leads to the formation and Targeting Tau Protein Aggregation release of interleukin-1β, a proinflammatory One of the causes of disease progression in cytokine which plays a major role in the neurodegenerative disorders (e.g. Alzheimer’s inflammatory pathways underlying disease) is the malfunctioning and aggregation of tau neurodegenerative processes. Our work involves protein. To date, research efforts involving single developing ligands that bind to the P2X7R to inhibit target approaches for treating tauopathies have not its activation. resulted in the discovery of any disease modifying Supervisor: Professor Michael Kassiou. therapies. However, multi-targeted strategies have shown promise and are being pursued at an increasing rate. Currently we are developing compounds that modulate tau phosphorylation, promote tau clearance and inhibit tau aggregation. The long-term aim is to merge the pharmacophores of various combinations of these targets, to generate multi- target tau aggregation inhibitors. This project will Please feel free to contact me to learn continue work towards the synthesis of ligands to more about these and other projects develop structure-activity relationships for the above available. targets. Supervisor: Professor Michael Kassiou. 34 DR YU HENG LAU
Room 412A
T: +61 2 8627 5562
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/yuheng-lau.html
Our research projects are perfect for students who have a dual interest in both organic chemistry and biochemistry or molecular biology.
We take the molecules of life – proteins and peptides – and use chemical techniques to reprogram them for synthetic applications, ranging from catalysts for carbon fixation to molecular candidates for cancer therapy.
Our projects are very diverse, providing experience with a wide range of techniques: peptide chemistry, protein engineering, organic synthesis, DNA design, microscopy, and biophysics. Engineered protein nanocages Targeting telomeres for cancer therapy
We study encapsulins, naturally-occurring protein We synthesise stapled peptides, that are cyclised via cages found in bacteria (Nat. Commun. 2018, 9, their sidechains to improve stability and potency. 1311). We aim to use encapsulins to create caged Our peptides are designed to target a range of catalysts and therapeutics with novel biological oncogenic protein targets that act at telomeres. properties.
1) Improving carbon fixation using caged Rubisco 3) Inhibiting protein-protein interactions at enzymes telomeres involved in cancer In this project, you will prepare encapsulins filled In this project, you will synthesise stapled peptides with carbon fixation enzymes, and explore whether and fragment analogues to block telomeric proteins modifications to the amino acid sequence can help implicated in cancer, and conduct in vitro assays to boost the reaction rate for carbon fixation. determine their therapeutic potential. The project will involve protein biochemistry, The project will involve peptide and organic microscopy, and analytical chemistry. synthesis, biophysical analysis, and microscopy studies. 2) Fluorescence studies on protein cages for drug delivery In this project, you will prepare fluorescently- labelled encapsulins and use confocal microscopy to study their uptake behaviour in cells. The project will involve molecular biology, spectroscopy and microscopy studies. This is a joint project with Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth New.
Please feel free to email Yu Heng to learn more about these and other projects available.
Also check out our group website: LauGroup.net 35 professor Peter lay
Room 307 T: +61 2 9351 4269 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/ our-people/academic-staff/peter-lay.html
Biochemistry of Cr, Mo and V anti- Imaging of organelles in cells: diabetic drugs and supplements: We Changes in the biochemistry of spe- Biospectroscopy, medicinal inorganic have amassed evidence to implicate cific organelles in cells are often one chemistry, and molecular and cell potentially carcinogenic Cr(VI/V) of the keys to understanding disease biology will be used to understand complexes as the active forms of Cr processes and, hence, to identify new the mode of action of existing drugs, dietary supplements that are widely drug targets and drug leads. There- the design of new drugs and to learn consumed for fat reduction and the fore, it is important to develop new more about normal physiological and treatment and prevention of diabetes. imaging techniques to enable organ- disease processes at a molecular and We are using similar techniques to elles to be identified in live cells and cellular level. Projects will centre on those used in the Cr studies to unravel their biochemistry monitored. Specific metal-based anti-cancer and anti-di- the biochemistry of V and Mo supple- fluorescence probes are useful for abetic drugs, the active sites of heme ments that are also anti-diabetics. The identification of specific organelles, but proteins, or the use of biospectroscopy studies are aimed at producing safer until recent developments in the New in disease diagnosis. and more efficacious treatments for group, most of these are not useful the prevention and treatment of diabe- Spectroelectrochemistry of osmium for live cell imaging. We will combine tes. These projects will include studies ammine mixed valence ions: Mixed- developments in New group on novel of the interactions of the complexes valence complexes have played a organelle-specific fluorescent probes with biomolecules and cells using vari- central role in understanding electron with 3D vibrational spectroscopic ous spectroscopic techniques, includ- transfer processes that are critical imaging techniques. These will be used ing microprobes (X-ray, Raman, FTIR in biological electron transfer and to monitor organelle-specific changes and fluorescence) and biochemical materials research. Much of this in live cells during normal physiological assays of protein expression, post- understanding has arisen from studies processes (cell cycle), progression translational phosphorylation, sugar on Ru(III/II) ammine mixed-valence uptake and metabolism (glucose vs of disease and/or the effects of drug ions with various bridging ligands, but fructose), and protein-protein interac- treatments. This research will be di- Os anologues were much less acces- tions. Supervisor: Professor Peter Lay. rected at either metabolic diseases or sible until general synthetic procedures cancer. Supervisors: Professor Peter were developed by Lay. The Os Anti-cancer drugs: The anti-cancer Lay and Associate Professor Liz New. complexes are of particular interest properties of Ru complexes will be because of strong intervalence elec- studied, since Ru complexes are one Vibrational spectroscopic studies for tronic transitions in the near IR and IR of few classes that have strong anti- studies on disease processes and di- regions of the spectrum where vibra- metastatic activities. Investigations will agnosis: IR and Raman spectroscopic tional transitions normally dominate. involve studies on the ability of the Ru techniques can be used to diagnose This project will involve the synthesis complexes to bind to blood proteins, various diseases and to understand of Os ammine complexes with bridging extracellular matrices, the cell surface, disease progression at the biochemi- dinitrogen, N-heterocycle and organo- and intracellular targets in order to cal level. The techniques rely on the cyanide ligands and spectroelectro- bring about anti-metastatic versus ability of vibrational spectroscopic chemical experiments that include cytotoxicity assays. Separate studies techniques to differentiate changes in variable-temperature UV-Vis-NIR on one of Ga or V (with Dr. A. Levina) amounts and distributions of biochemi- spectroelectrochemistry, Raman and or Ru and/or Rh anti-cancer drugs in- cals. Research could concentrate on IR spectroelectrochemistry, as well as cluding targeted drug delivery systems cancer, malaria, neurodegenerative a range of other spectroscopic tech- (with Prof. K. Jolliffe and A. Levina) diseases or cardiovascular disease, in niques. The understanding of these will be considered. A project focused collaboration with colleagues in a num- basic spectroscopic properties leads on any one of these metals could ber of hospitals and medical institutes. the way towards advanced materials in include a combination of synthetic Supervisor: Peter Lay. which mixed valency is central to the organchemistry, biospectroscopy, and functionality. Supervisors: Professor biochemical and cell biology assays. Please feel free to contact me to learn Peter Lay and Associate Professor Supervisors: Professor Peter Lay and more about these and other projects Deanna D’Alessandro. Professor Kate Jolliffe. available. 36 DR XUYU LIU
Room 526
E: [email protected] W:https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/xuyu-liu.html
Project 1: Development of high- Project 2: PROTACs for cardiovascular disease affinity ACE2 mutants to combat In this honours project, we will design COVID19 PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras and create a conditional knock-out The human surface-expressed (PROTACs) represent exciting new system (PROXY) that leverages the angiotension-converting enzyme 2 drug modalities. PROTACs are potency of PROTACs and oxygen-sensing (ACE2) receptor has been identified bifunctional molecules capable of Arg/N-degron motifs, which will enable as a functional receptor to mediate binding simultaneously to a protein the investigation of transient protein cell-entry of SARS-CoV-2–the in the ubiquitinase complex as well as functions in vascular tissues and platelets etiological virus causing the current a protein target; this promotes responding to intermittent oxidative COVID-19 pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 selective proteolytic degradation of stress. This project will be co-supervised infection has also been shown to lead the target. This project aims to by: Dr Xuyu Liu and Dr Mark White. to a substantial decrease in surface develop the first platelet PROTACs expression of ACE2 receptor, for the treatment of a range of Project 4: Application of natural product- resulting in acute respiratory distress thrombosis-related cardiovascular based probes to discover novel syndrome (ARDS)–one of the most diseases, e.g. stroke. The project will cardiovascular-protective targets devastating forms of acute lung involve synthesis of inhibitors of Despite the global burden of failure. three key kinase targets (Pyk2, PI3K To address these ongoing issues, and Akt) and the conjugation of these cardiovascular disease, the development we aim to establish an expressed to “degrader” units to assemble of new cardiovascular drugs has stalled protein ligation platform to develop PROTAC libraries. The effectiveness for over two decades. Recently, there is a high-affinity ACE2 mutants which of the novel PROTACs will be considerable interest in the development are capable of scavenging SARS-CoV- assessed in platelet aggregation and of natural products extracted from 2 virus effectively in vivo whilst in vitro degradation assays. This healthy diets for cardiovascular- offering lung- and cardiovascular- project will be co-supervised by: Dr protective therapeutics. However, it protective effects. Xuyu Liu and Professor Richard remains a huge challenge to understand The specific objectives include： Payne. the molecular biology behind, which (1) Synthesising a library of high- Project 3: Conditional knock-out of impedes pharmacological optimisation of affinity ACE2 peptide mutants. proteins in cardiovascular system by these bioactive agents. In this honours (2) Synthesising full-length ACE2 small-molecule modulators project, we aim to apply cutting-edge proteins with distinct mutation chemical proteomics and chemical pattern harnessing advanced protein Dissecting intricate protein signalling fluorescence technologies (ACS Cent. Sci. ligation technology (Nature in cell requires precision control of Trends Biochem. Sci. Chemistry 2017, ACS Cent. Sci. 2018) the function and abundance of 2020, 2019) to (3) Examining the binding affinity proteins on demand. Advanced understand the intricate bio-activity of against SARS-COV-2 Spike protein genetic technology yields very limited sulforaphane(SFN), a cardioprotective using FACS, confocal microscopy and information of dynamic cellular ingredient found in heart-healthy diets. surface plasmon resonance response to extracellular cues, i.e. Please feel free to contact me to learn technologies. Supervisor: Dr Xuyu Liu. cellular response to rapid oxidative more about these and other projects Project funding by Therapeutic stress in stroke. In contrast, chemical available. Australia Innovation COVID grant. biology is making a huge translational impact to solve this contemporary challenge in dynamic physiology. 37 associate professor chris mcerlean
Room 518A T: +61 2 9351 3970 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/ academic-staff/christopher-mcerlean.html
A re-iterative approach to polycyclic combinations of reactive functional antifungal) upon triggered degradation. ether construction: The marine ladder groups and congested stereochemi- In this project you will employ rROP to toxins, including the brevetoxins, cigua- cal density, means that this family of introduce degradability into synthetic toxins and protoceratins, are some of compounds has never succumbed to polymers using defined cyclic ketene the most complex natural products that enantioselective synthesis. All that acetals (CKAs). By carefully designing have ever been isolated. Indeed, mai- is about to change. The project for and synthesizing the CKA, not only will totoxin is the largest non-proteinaceous 2018 will involve the total synthesis of the required bio-properties be incorpo- molecules ever isolated from nature. non-canonical strigolactones for use rated directly into the parent polymer, Compounds of this class display spec- by international collaborators in the but the degradation products will also tacular and varied biological effects plant sciences. Supervisor: Associate possess defined biological activities. In including anti-fungal, anti-cancer and Professor Chris McErlean. an increasingly environmentally aware anti-cystic fibrosis activity. In order world, this “whole-lifecycle” approach to study the biological mechanisms of Point mutation using photoredox ca- to polymer construction will represent action of these compounds, an efficient talysis: Point mutations of polypeptides a new direction in polymer science. and flexible synthetic strategy must be (such as proteins) traditionally involve Image: Nature Chemistry 7, 771–784 invented. The ambitious project for altering a single base of DNA/RNA, and (2015). Supervisors: Associate Profes- 2018 will involve the development of a then use of a living cell to incorporate contra-biomimetic re-iterative strategy the new sequence into the ribosome for sor Chris McErlean and Dr Markus for the construction of polycyclic eventual production of a point mutant. Muellner. ethers. Supervisor: Associate Profes- Wouldn’t it be faster, cheaper, and more Total synthesis of anti-infective sor Chris McErlean. direct to chemoselectively transform a single amino acid of a polypeptide peptide polyketide natural products: Total synthesis of canonical strigo- into a vast array of natural and non- Recent advances in the discovery and lactones: Everyone knows how plants natural mutants? The McErlean group characterization of biosynthetic gene grow, right? Wrong! Revolutionary has recently developed a photoredox clusters has revealed the existence discoveries in 2005 and 2008 mean catalysed method for the generation of of hybrid polyketide-peptide natural that we are only just beginning to radicals in a chemoselective manner. products that are produced through unravel the complex mechanisms The Jolliffe group are world leaders in mixed non-ribosomal peptide synthesis under-pinning plant growth and devel- the application of peptides scaffolds for (NRPS)-polyketide synthase (PKS) opment and a family of plant-signalling selective ion sensing. The project for pathways. These fascinating me- molecules called the strigolactones is 2018 will involve the application of pho- tabolites have been shown to exhibit a the key to many of these processes. toredox catalysed point mutation for plethora of biological activities, includ- The McErlean group has developed an the generation of therapeutic peptide ing potent activity against a range of efficient strategy to access these criti- libraries. Supervisors: Associate Pro- disease causing pathogens and may cal molecules. The project for 2018 will fessor Chris McErlean and Professor therefore serve as novel lead molecules involve the total synthesis of canonical Kate Jolliffe. for drug discovery efforts. This honours strigolactones for use by international Biodegradable and stimuli-responsive project will involve the total chemical collaborators in the plant sciences. synthesis of the peptide-polyketide nat- Supervisor: Associate Professor Chris polymers for bio-applications: For ural product janadolide, isolated from an McErlean. application in bio-medical devices, poly- mers are required to be bio-compatible Okeania sp. of marine cyanobacterium Total synthesis of non-canonical and degradable. Radical ring opening that has been shown to possess potent strigolactones: Do molecules have to polymerisation (rROP) has emerged anti-parasitic activity. The project will be large to be complex and difficult to as a new tool to impart degrada- involve a combination of modern solu- synthesize? No! The non-cannonical tion profiles into synthetic polymers. tion- and solid-phase organic synthesis strigolactones shown below are plant Moreover, rROP will allow us to design methods as well as biological screening. derived molecules whose functions inert biocompatible polymers that only Supervisors: A/Prof Chris McErlean are currently unknown. The unique activate specific properties (antibiotic, and Professor Richard Payne. 38 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ALICE MOTION
Room 356a
T: +61 2 8627 0823
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/alice-motion.html
Research in the SCOPE (Science Communication, Communicating chemistry: Chemistry is a Outreach, Participation and Education) Group aims tremendous force for good in our world, but not to connect people with science by making it more enough people know this. How do we spread the accessible. Using open science, education and word? What are the most effective ways to outreach, our projects include open source drug communicate our subject to non-experts, to help discovery research for diseases such as malaria and people feel more connected to our discipline and to mycetoma; research into public engagement with increase the general scientific literacy of our society? chemistry through science outreach and citizen Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter science; and research into science education. Rutledge
Open Source Drug Discovery: Solving wicked problems like antimicrobial resistance, malaria, or TB, requires new ways of thinking. Doing science ‘open source’ involves collaborating with everybody, sharing data and ideas in real time, using the tools and principles of open source software development. Join us to work on the Open Source Malaria or Open Source Mycetoma projects, and other projects in open source drug discovery. Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter Building a Modern Chemistry Kit: This project will Rutledge seek to build a ‘Hello Fresh’ for chemistry experiments, where schoolteachers, lecturers or Breaking Good – exploring citizen science projects science outreach teams can order bespoke chemical in chemistry: Citizen science empowers members of demonstrations suitable for specific audiences or the public to contribute to authentic research syllabus requirements. Investigations into the projects and knowledge creation. Breaking Good is a pedagogical importance of practical demonstrations citizen science initiative that engages high school in science education will inform your research into students, undergraduates and citizens to contribute safe, suitable and effective demonstrations for to projects that improve human health. Join Breaking diverse audiences. Good to develop process-style chemical synthesis for Supervisor: A/Prof Alice Motion schools, to create and evaluate learning resources in chemistry or to explore ways to engage non-chemists Inclusive chemistry communication and in drug discovery projects. education: This project will explore ways to make Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter chemistry (and science more broadly) more inclusive Rutledge in formal and/or informal settings. Science belongs to everyone, but some groups of people may not feel connected to, or represented in science, because of structural barriers that exist. In this project, you will research methods to improve the accessibility of science, and design and implement interventions to widen participation in science. Supervisor: A/Prof Alice Motion
These are just some of many projects in the SCOPE Group Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 39 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR LIZ NEW Our research involves developing fluorescent sensors that enable Room 543 us to better understand medicine and the environment. Honours projects can include organic or T: +61 2 9351 1993 inorganic synthesis, photophysical characterisation, E: [email protected] spectroscopic studies and application of sensors in W: www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- biological studies. people/academic-staff/elizabeth-new.html
Fluorescence studies of synthetic organelles: Encapsulins are naturally-occurring bacterial compartments which are of interest for use as synthetic organelles and molecular cages for controlling chemical and enzymatic catalysis and for drug delivery In this project, you will prepare fluorescently-labelled encapsulins and use confocal New responsive sensors for biological sensing: The field of microscopy to study their behaviour. The project will fluorescent sensing has provided biological researchers with involve molecular biology, spectroscopy tools to visualise organelles, proteins, and chemical and microscopy studies. This is a joint processes taking place within the cell. Projects in this area project with Dr Yu Heng Lau will involve designing fluorophores with improved chemical and biological properties, and preparation of responsive fluorescent sensors to understand the chemistry of the cell. Using nanotechnology to build sensing molecules: DNA- These projects will suit with an interest in synthesis and based sensors offer many opportunities for sensing photophysical studies (UV-vis, fluorescence), and could also applications, including their ability to adopt many different include theoretical calculations and/or biological studies. 3D structures, to replicate biologically-relevant recognition This is a joint project with Prof. Kate Jolliffe. events, the relative ease with which libraries of sensor candidates can be prepared and screened. This project will Array-based sensing for biological studies: A key current involve developing new DNA-based sensors for biologically challenge in biology and medicine is the measurement of relevant analytes, such as platinum-based drugs. The chemical species within complex environments such as project can involve many different techniques, including biological fluids. For example, subtle changes in enzyme DNA engineering, fluorescence spectroscopy, inorganic expression can signal diseases such as cancer and arthritis. In synthesis and biological studies. This is a joint project with this project, we will explore fluorescent sensing techniques Dr Shelley Wickham. for measuring disease markers, with the ultimate aim of clinical testing. In particular, we will utilise array-based technologies, which can concurrently screen multiple samples and analytes. This project will involve organic synthesis, photophysical studies, statistical analysis and testing of biological samples. This is a joint project with Prof. Kate Jolliffe.
healthy
treated Single molecule spectroscopy of fluorophores: The ability to study the photophysical properties of compounds on the single molecule level has revolutionised science, from diseased fundamental understanding to biological applications. The aim of this project is to design and synthesise new fluorophores that exhibit promising emission properties, Functionalised polymers as fluorescent sensors: Polymers and to carry out structure-property studies of their are an attractive scaffold for responsive sensors as they can behaviour using a range of cutting-edge spectroscopic be decorated with multiple binding/recognition sites, techniques. The project offers the opportunity for therefore increasing the selectivity and/or binding affinity synthesis and spectroscopic studies, and will be of for complex analytes. This project will involve particular interest to students interested in the the synthesis of responsive polymers relationship between molecular structure and function. functionalised with receptors and fluorophores This is a joint project with Dr Girish Lakhwani. that can be applied to environmental or biological studies. This project will involve polymer synthesis and photophysical studies. Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and This is a joint project with Dr Markus Muellner other projects available. 40 PROFESSOR RICH PAYNE
Room 545
T: +61 2 9351 5877 E: [email protected] W:https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/o ur-people/academic-staff/richard-payne.html
Organic Synthesis, Chemical Biology and Drug Total Synthesis Discovery: Research in the group is focused on developing and utilising synthetic methods to solve Project 3: Synthesis of therapeutic proteins via problems in biology and medicine. We have used novel peptide ligation technologies: chemistry developed in our lab to generate drug Recently we have developed a number of new synthetic candidates for a range of diseases. technologies that enable peptide fragments to be “stitched” together to generate therapeutic proteins Drug Discovery (see Nature Rev. Chem. 2018, 0122 and Nature Prot. 2019, 2229). This project will involve the synthesis of Project 1:Novel Antiviral Development for COVID-19 modified variants of anti-coagulant and anti- The COVID-19 pandemic caused by infection with the inflammatory proteins produced by blood feeding novel coronavirus – SARS-CoV-2 – need little organisms and their assessment in biological assays (see introduction. Within 9 months of the first reported twitter.com/9NewsSyd/status/1265206053194600450). COVID-19 case there have been 28 million cases and Supervisor: Professor Rich Payne. ca. 1 million deaths globally. We have developed a Project 4: Total synthesis of anti-infective natural cutting-edge peptide display products: platform to discover large Recent advances in the discovery and characterization families of cyclic peptides of biosynthetic gene clusters has revealed the existence that inhibit viral proteins of hybrid polyketide-peptide natural products which essential for cell entry and exhibit potent antibacterial and antifungal activities. replication. In this Honours This honours project will involve project you will synthesise a library of cyclic peptide the total chemical synthesis of the antivirals using modified solid-phase peptide antifungal peptide-polyketide synthesis and assess their activity in biochemical natural product burkholdine assays. Compounds will also be screened against (right) isolated from the SARS-CoV-2 (with A/Prof Turville, Kirby Institute). bacterium Burkholderia ambifaria. Supervisor: Prof. Rich Payne and Dr Toby Passioura. Supervisor: Prof. Rich Payne and A/Prof Chris McErlean. Synthetic vaccines Project 5: PROTACs for cardiovascular disease Project 2: Glycopeptide cancer vaccines: In cancer cells PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) are there is a significant increase in the expression of a bifunctional molecules that bind simultaneously to a number of glycoproteins. This makes a cancer cell ‘look’ protein in the ubiquitinase complex as well as a protein different to a normal cell and opens up avenues for the target, thus promoting selective proteolytic degradation development of glycopeptide-based cancer vaccines. of the target. This project aims to develop the first This project will use solid-phase peptide synthesis and platelet-specific PROTACs for the treatment of a range organic synthesis to produce defined glycopeptides from of thrombosis-related cardiovascular diseases, e.g. cancer-associated cell-surface proteins. stroke and DVT. The project will involve synthesis of These will be covalently linked to inhibitors of three key kinases (Pyk2, PI3K and Akt) and immune-stimulating adjuvant molecules the conjugation of these to “degrader” units to to elicit a favourable immune response. assemble PROTAC libraries. The PROTACs will be The compounds synthesised in this assessed in platelet aggregation and in vitro project will be used to generate tumour- degradation assays. selective antibodies in immunological studies thus allowing for their evaluation Supervisors: Professor Rich Payne and Dr Xuyu Liu as anti-cancer vaccines. Please feel free to contact me to learn more about Supervisor: Prof. Rich Payne and A/Prof these and other honours projects available in the Scott Byrne (CPC). Payne Group: https://payneresearchgroup.com/ 41 PROFESSOR LOU RENDINA
Room 518
T: +61 2 9351 4781
E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/louis-rendina.html
Our research group is a world leader in the synthesis of Boron in drug discovery new molecules containing boron or gadolinium, with Boron-based drugs are increasingly being investigated in an emphasis on their applications in medicine. We are many disease categories, with numerous pharmaceutical particularly interested in exploiting the unique companies (e.g. Pfizer, GSK, and Takeda) dramatically properties of these two elements in cutting-edge expanding their boron research programs in recent years cancer therapies. We are also interested in their in the quest for novel drug candidates, e.g. Velcade® incorporation into unique molecular scaffolds for (bortezomib) which is used in the treatment of multiple binding to important biological receptors or as myeloma. We are currently investigating the use of advanced materials. The Honours projects outlined carboranes and other boron fragments as unique below would ideally suit those students with an frameworks in new drugs for the diagnosis and treatment interest in synthetic chemistry and/or medicinal of aggressive and intractable cancers such as malignant chemistry. gliomas. Biological studies may also be incorporated into the project, depending upon the student’s own interests and background.
New tumour-selective chelators for multiple theranostic applications Gadolinium complexes as a new class of We have recently designed a new class of organic theranostic agents chelators that can selectively target tumour cell The 5-year survival rate for patients afflicted with mitochondria. These chelators can deliver high aggressive and intractable brain tumours (gliomas) is concentrations of metal ions to tumour cells with high less than 4%. In this project, we will incorporate Gd3+ selectivity over normal, healthy cells. There now exists ions into tumour-selective agents in order to localize the opportunity to exploit this family of chelators in a this metal near a critical sub-cellular organelle for number of cutting-edge cancer therapies and also in application in binary therapies such as photon tumour diagnosis (PET and MRI) involving a variety of activation therapy (PAT) and neutron capture therapy medically-relevant metal ions (e.g. Gd3+, Ga3+, and Lu3+). (NCT). We have already demonstrated substantial and selective brain tumour cell destruction in the presence Please note that no boron or lanthanoid chemistry of a prototype Gd agent and synchrotron X-ray background is assumed for any of these projects. These photons or thermal neutrons, the first time that either projects can be tailored to suit the specific interests of any GdPAT or GdNCT experiments have been conducted in student. Please feel free to contact me, check out the Australia. The use of Gd agents to target tumour cell online Honours poster on Canvas, or visit our group mitochondria would open up new vistas in binary website to learn more about these and other (jointly cancer therapies, with potential imaging applications supervised) projects available. in MRI. 42 PROFESSOR PETER RUTLEDGE
Room 547
T: +61 2 9351 5020
E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/peter-rutledge.html
Research in the Rutledge group uses the tools of Disrupting protein aggregation: amyloid fibrils are organic synthesis and chemical biology to develop associated with protein mis-folding and disease (e.g. new antibiotics, antifungals, and anticancer drugs, Alzheimer’s and prion-associated diseases). But they disrupt protein aggregation, and study protein also play key roles in structures that are vital to the function and evolution. We are also interested in survival and virulence of fungi. We have discovered a chemistry education and communication research. family of small molecules that disrupt the formation of amyloid fibrils. We are using these compounds to Antibiotics discovery: Bacterial resistance to study amyloid assembly and develop new ways to antibiotics is an ever more urgent challenge for treat diseases, both those that involve protein mis- modern science and medicine. We are developing folding, and those involving pathogenic fungi. new ways to combat resistant bacteria, e.g.: Supervisors: Prof Peter Rutledge and A/Prof Margie 1. Building new organometallic antibacterials with Sunde (SOMS) high potency against tuberculosis and related species (with Prof Jamie Triccas, CPC). Open Source Drug Discovery: Solving wicked 2. Making ‘resistance-activated’ antibiotics. problems like antimicrobial resistance, malaria, or 3. Screening natural product extracts for new TB, requires new ways of thinking. Doing science antimicrobial activity (with Dr Ern Lacey, MST). ‘open source’ involves collaborating with everybody, 4. Synthesising cyclobutanone β-lactams as β- sharing data and ideas in real time, using the tools lactamase inhibitors, using biocatalysis. and principles of open source software 5. Mining microbial genomes for new bioactive development. Join us to work on the Open Source compounds (with Prof Greg Challis, Monash). Malaria or Open Source Mycetoma projects, and Working on one of these projects you will develop other projects in open source drug discovery. skills in organic synthesis, chromatography and Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter spectroscopy, or bioinformatics (genome mining Rutledge project), and may have opportunity to conduct Communicating chemistry: Chemistry is a biological assays with our collaborators. tremendous force for good in our world, but not Supervisor: Prof Peter Rutledge enough people know this. How do we spread the word? What are the most effective ways to Evolving new old proteins: Ancestral sequence communicate our subject to non-experts, to help reconstruction is a technique that allows us to study people feel more connected to our discipline and protein evolution and resurrect ancient enzymes. increase the general scientific literacy of our society? We are using this and related approaches to A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter investigate how oxygenase enzymes evolved over Supervisors: Rutledge time and what they did before the world had oxygen, then apply this knowledge to build new, Please feel free to contact me to learn more about improved biocatalysts for the future. these and other projects available. Supervisors: Prof Peter Rutledge and A/Prof Nick Coleman (SOLES)
N N N M N M Ligand Ligand Protein Metal Complex Activated Protein A 'target-activated metal complex‘ Potent activity against mycobacterial infections like TB. Chem Eur J 2018 24 1573 J Med Chem 2018 61 3595 43 DR MARK WHITE
Room 516
T: +61 2 86279412
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/mark-white.html
Oxygen (O2) homeostasis is critical for mammalian life Biological chemistry and is impaired in many human disorders. As a result, the molecular machinery responsible for coordinating O2 Project 1: Structural characterisation of a 2- adaptation have become prominent therapeutic targets.I aminoethanethiol dioxygenase complex have recently identified a novel O2 sensing pathway (the Cys/Arg branch of the N-degron pathway), which could be Using amber codon suppression, we will install manipulated to treat low O (hypoxic) conditions such as 2 unnatural amino acids into the substrate of the O2 cancer and cardiovascular disease. Using a range of sensing enzyme 2-aminoethanethiol dioxygenase techniques at the interface of chemistry and biology you (ADO) so that a complex structure can be will help characterise this system and develop chemical determined by X-ray crystallography. This will tools to investigate and manipulate hypoxic responses. provide unprecedented information on enzyme chemistry and facilitate the rational development of Chemical tools and probes chemical inhibitors to treat hypoxic disease.
Project 1: Designing PROTACs for the conditional Supervisor (s): Dr Mark White destabilization of proteins in cardiovascular systems We will design and create a conditional knock-out system Project 2: Dissecting the role and chemical using small molecule conjugates that can regulate protein contribution of nitric oxide in the N-degron stability in response to oxidative stress by incorporating pathway the O2 sensing motif of the N-degron pathway into proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology. This Nitric oxide (NO) is reactive signalling molecule that will enable the transient manipulation of protein function controls a wide range of biological functions, largely in cardiovascular tissue for therapeutic and diagnostic through its interaction with metal centres and thiol purposes. groups. Through an undetermined mechanism, NO promotes protein degradation through the Cys/Arg Supervisor (s): Dr Mark White and Dr Xuyu Liu branch of the N-degron pathway. Using synthetic substrates and a recombinant enzyme system, we Project 2: Identifying high affinity ligands of 2- will determine the role of NO, characterise its aminoethanethiol dioxygenase chemical intermediates and verify its biological Using the high throughput screening platform mRNA function. display, we will identify, and subsequently optimise, novel high affinity ligands of the oxygen sensing enzyme Please feel free to contact me to learn more about 2-aminoethanethiol dioxygenase (ADO) so that its activity these and other projects available. can be manipulated in vitro and in vivo. This will facilitate the discovery of new targets of the Cys/Arg branch of the N-degron pathway and provide a platform for drug development.
Supervisor (s): Dr Mark White 44 DR SHELLEY WICKHAM
Room 350
T: +61 2 9351 3366
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/academic- staff/shelley-wickham.html https://www.sydney.edu.au/nano/our-research/grand- challenges/nanorobotics-for-health.html
We use DNA as a molecular building block for self- Rolling nanobots on molecular obstacle courses: assembling nanoscale structures and devices. With Cells and viruses often move around by rolling on DNA we can make nanoscale tools – tweezers, biological surfaces, a type of motility that is facilitated spanners, wrenches and springs – and use them to by weak interactions with surface-bound ligands. understand cells and proteins. We use DNA Building synthetic systems with this type of motility nanostructures to develop new methods for in vitro can teach us more about how biological systems work diagnosis, and as templates for nanofabrication of and can lead us to new bio-nanotechnological electronic and plasmonic devices. We are also building discoveries (eg. Nano Lett. 2019, 19(12), 9138). Using sophisticated nanorobots to navigate complex our expertise in DNA nanotechnology, surface environments and selectively deliver drugs in the body. functionalisation and microscopy this project will focus on building DNA-based nanobots that roll on DNA-directed control of membrane signalling: surfaces patterned with tiny obstacle courses, This project aims to design DNA-nanotechnology for allowing us to answer fundamental questions about processing optical signals in synthetic biological biology with a view towards molecular medicines. systems. We will duplicate the biological circuitry Supervisor(s): Dr Shelley Wickham, Jonathan that transmits signals across lipid membranes. Berengut Ultimately, we aim to mimic the retina to develop a Nanotechnology to sense platinum in the blood modular, lipid droplet-based system that can detect Platinum- based drugs are used in a large proportion spatial patterns of light and convert them into of all chemotherapy regimens, but methods to chemical and electrical outputs for interacting with measure drug levels in the blood are still lacking. This biochemical and cellular systems. This has potential project will involve developing new DNA-based future applications in brain-machine interfaces. sensors for platinum in the blood. Supervisor (s): Dr Shelley Wickham Supervisor(s): Dr Shelley Wickham and A/Prof Liz New
Navigating the brain along its spatial gradients Please feel free to contact me to learn more using DNA nanorobots about these and other projects available. Recent neuroscience breakthroughs have revealed spatial patterns in the brain's molecular structure, which represent a molecular ‘postcode’ of different brain areas. In this project, we will build a nanoscale machine that is able to navigate to specific locations in the brain using these patterns. We will design programmable molecular logic gates, which compare local chemical signals to stored values so that the nanorobot can determine its location in the brain. We will also build a ‘brain-map-on-a-chip’, which will serve as a controlled in vitro ‘maze’ in which to train and test these nanorobots experimentally. This work could ultimately lead to targeted drug delivery to specific parts of the brain. Supervisor (s): Dr Shelley Wickham, Dr Ben Fulcher 45
computional and theoretical; soft matter; and materials chemistry
Research area: Computational and theoretical, soft matter, materials chemistry
• Professor Peter Gill • Professor Peter Harrowell • Professor Stephen Hyde 46 PROFESSOR PETER HARROWELL
Room 356
T: +61 2 9351 4102
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/peter.harrowell.html
We are interested in using computer modelling Machine Learning and Material Fabrication and theory to understand the microscopic The structure of a non-equilibrium solid like glass origins of fundamental aspects of depends on its history. Vary the conditions of crystallization, glass formation and the stability fabrication and you adjust the final material of novel solids. properties. We do not know how much variation is possible through control of the formation conditions. While each of the projects listed involves computer In this project you will apply machine learning to modelling no previous experience in computing is identify the optimum fabrication methods for a required as instruction will be provided. each modelled material to establish, for the first time, the limits on the properties that can be realistically Woven Solids: The Birds Nest Problem achieved. This project is a collaboration with Dr Woven textiles are remarkable – light, flexible, Stephen Whitelam at the Lawrence Livermore Lab, strong and, often, renewable. What new types of Berkeley, CA. materials might we make if we could make three dimensional weaves? A bird’s nest suggests one fascinating possibility – a rigid structure formed from Thermal Scattering from Glassy Solids stiff fibres without any bonding interactions. In this The scattering pattern of x-rays and electrons from project you will use computer simulations to study glasses resembles that of a liquid and so tells us little how stored bending energy in 3D weaves can about the development of rigidity of the phase. produce rigid structures. This study will contribute to Recent work in the group has established that fields as diverse as biology, architecture and material another quantity, the amplitude of atomic motions, design. This project is a collaboration with Prof. can provide a direct measure of developing solidity. Stephen Hyde. In this project you will use computer simulations to calculate the thermal scattering pattern and develop, for the first time, a method for extracting the Debye- Waller factor form experiments on glasses. This project is a collaboration with the experimental group of Dr Amelia Liu at Monash University.
Making Porous Metal Surfaces by Selective Dissolution The efficiency of electrodes and catalytic surfaces are directly related to the surface area. Porous structures can increase this area by factors of 105. An exciting new strategy for generating these porous surfaces involves the use of selective dissolution of one metal species from a disordered alloy. In this project you will use computer modelling to explore the process of selective dealloying and the stability of the porous structures formed. 47 PROFESSOR STEPHEN HYDE
Room 412C
T: +61 2 8627 9865
E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/ our-people/academic-staff/stephen- hyde.html
I am interested in exploring the fundamental design Materials design principles of topologically complex structures of Woven Solids: The Bird’s Nest Problem synthetic and biological materials, from folded RNA Woven textiles are remarkable materials – light, to biological and synthetic membranes. Key tools flexible, strong .. and, in many cases renewable – are non-Euclidean geometry, knot theory and low- that humans have relied on for over 10000 years. dimensional topology. What new types of materials might we form if we could make three dimensional weaves? The project will examine how weave structures, fibre stiffness and friction contribute to the stability of the final Tangled molecular structures material. Insights from this study will have Single-stranded RNA (pseudoknots) application in fields as diverse as biology, architecture and material design. While previous RNA in many viruses adopts complex folds, often experience in computer programming is useful, it is almost, but perhaps not quite, knotted. Are knotted not necessary structures likely to occur in natural and synthetic RNA strands? If not, how is that prevented? If so, Supervisors: Peter Harrowell, Stephen Hyde what knots are likely? Some exposure to topology and/or knot theory would help in getting into this theoretical project.
Supervisor: Stephen Hyde DNA nanotechnology Harnessing DNA to build 3D honeycombs
The base-pair recognition of DNA strands can be used to build synthetic structures at the molecular Membrane self-assembly scale and up. In this project, we plan to use simple Folded vesicles & lamellar bodies flat modules of DNA to assemble complex three- dimensional structures, in the spirit of an IKEA build, though a little smaller. The idea is to design DNA tiles Nature has found very efficient ways to package a lot with sticky edges, so under the right conditions tiles of membrane tightly, allowing transport of those glue to each other to build three-dimensional packages and subsequent unfolding. “Lamellar honeycomb like constructions. The long-term goal is bodies”, for example, carry lung surfactants to their- to make these constructions reversible, so they will lung surface at birth, allowing mammals to take their build themselves, then disassemble, over and over. first breath (quickly!). This theory project will model Though most suited to lab studies, a hybrid theory- relative (free) energies of possible shapes of experimental project, developing novel geometrical (initially) spherical vesicles, to find ‘optimal’ shapes. designs, is also possible.
Supervisor: Stephen Hyde Supervisors: Stephen Hyde, Shelley Wickham
Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 48 PROFESSOR PETER GILL
Room 309
T: +61 2 8627 9486
W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/p-gill.html
The University of Sydney Quantum Chemistry group Research Area 2 is one of the hubs of the international “Q-Chem” collaboration (q-chem.com), which is developing Having found a good algorithm for solving the new ways to use quantum mechanics to predict electronic Schrödinger equation, it is chemical behaviour. There are three phases to such computationally challenging to implement the developments: algorithm’s equations as a useable program which runs well on a modern high-performance computer. Our group therefore collaborates Research Area 1 with top computer scientists to write cutting- edge software on cutting-edge hardware, such The Schrödinger equation describes the behaviour of as the Gadi supercomputer in Canberra or the electrons in a molecule but it is mathematically Summit supercomputer at Oak Ridge. This arm challenging to solve the equation for a large molecule of our research requires experience in in a reasonable amount of computer time. Our group programming. therefore collaborates with leading groups in the world to design new quantum chemistry algorithms Research Area 3 that find accurate approximate solutions to the Schrödinger equation for molecular systems. This Having created high-performance (Q-Chem) arm of our research requires experience in calculus, software to solve the Schrödinger equation for linear algebra and related topics. the electrons in molecules, it is chemically challenging to apply that software to attack and solve chemical problems, by predicting molecular structure, bonding and reactivity “in silico”, i.e. inside a computer. Our group therefore collaborates with experimental chemists, physicists and medical researchers, using Q-Chem to perform simulations that complement and enrich laboratory experiments.
Research projects are available in all three of these areas and a project is usually designed to fit the interests and expertise of the student. Our research is internationally recognized and the group leader, Prof Peter Gill, is currently the president of the World Association of Theoretical and Computational Chemists (watoc.net). For more information, contact Prof Gill. 49
chemistry education
Research area: Chemistry (education focused)
• Dr Stephen George-Williams • Associate Professor Alice Motion • Dr Reyne Pullen • Professor Peter Rutledge • Associate Professor Siggi Schmid • Dr Shane Wilkinson 50 Dr stephen george-williams
Room 201A T: +61 2 8627 7521 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our-people/ academic-staff/stephen-george-williams.html
In general, I am highly interested variety of topic areas and generate staff. What is unknown however, is the in how chemistry is taught (by the relevant virtual reality lessons direct factors that cause this variation us!) and learnt (by you!). Due to themselves. The overarching research and to what extent this difference is the sheer scope of activities that question, i.e. what effect the use of dependent on university or discipline are involved in this process, I am virtual reality has on student learning, area. constantly investigating a wide will be investigated through the use range of projects that span from the of audio and video recorded trials, In this project, a student will obtain teaching laboratory, to the lecture/ alongside concept inventories and past exam papers and compare tutorial activities, to our assessment practical tests. Co-Supervisors: performance on individual questions procedures, to the online space and A/Prof. Siegbert Schmid, Dr Reyne against predictions made by academic even into virtual reality! I am always Pullen. staff. This will be compared against on the hunt for new and exciting ways the demographics and research Rethinking undergraduate to improve the teaching and learning focus of the academic member of laboratories: The teaching laboratories of chemistry so please feel free to staff. If time permits, this project will in the school of chemistry represent reach out if you have ideas beyond the expand to other schools within the one of the strongest learning projects outlined here. university and potentially to other opportunities for students. However, universities in Australia. Additionally, Virtual reality for virtual learning: this can, at times, be undermined an intervention may be attempted The discipline of chemistry requires a by experiments that do not engage wherein the academic member of staff strong ability to link formal drawings students and have been noted to may be supported in considering more and images (often referred to as result in students completing the literature-based means of determining ‘symbols) to both the macroscopic activity in ‘auto-pilot’ mode – i.e. they question difficulty. Co-Supervisors: level (i.e. what we see) and the simply follow the steps with little to A/Prof. Siegbert Schmid, Dr Reyne no critical thought with the only goal microscopic level (i.e. the molecular Pullen. being the completion of the activity. and sub-molecular domain). Whilst we can discuss symbols and In this project, a student will aid in the show macroscopic examples, it is design, testing and implementation of incredibly difficult for us to truly new laboratory activities within the explain microscopic interactions in school of chemistry. Evaluation of a manner that ensures the student these activities will form the core of can ‘see’ what we, the teachers, see. this research project through student By working with the X-reality hub trials, interviews and surveys. This will within the School of Psychology, we also require a strong consideration can now consider how this could be of the assessment procedures, best achieved using their state-of- encompassing pre-laboratory work, in- the-art wireless virtual reality gear. class observation and post-laboratory With little literature precedent, this submissions. Co-Supervisors: A/Prof. project represents a cutting-edge Siegbert Schmid, Dr Reyne Pullen. investigation into the utility of this exciting new technology in the learning Measuring the ability of teaching space. staff to predict question difficulty: Previous literature has shown that In this project, a student, in students are often better at predicting consultation with various academic the difficulty of exam questions as members of staff, will choose from a compared to academic members of 51 Dr reyne pullen
Room 354 T: +61 2 8627 9298 E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/reyne-pullen.html
Teaching has always been one of have studied chemistry at all or for management or stress levels, and my driving forces and chemistry some time. Additionally, the first-year more. The scope of this project would education research allows me to student cohort is often incredibly begin within chemistry with potential better understand how I teach and diverse with students from many applicability to other disciplines how students learn. In contrast to academic and cultural backgrounds. As or other chemistry departments. disciplinary studies, working with such, it is important to find the means Supervisor: Dr Reyne Pullen. people introduces a huge variety of to support their transition into first- factors that can be challenging to year chemistry. constrain and measure. The benefits of this is that there are always new This project would aid in the design of and interesting questions to ask and an intervention to support students explore. If you have ever taken an in a variety of possible ways. This interest in teaching or would like to might include addressing key assumed better understand the reasoning knowledge in first-year chemistry behind some of the educational such as maths or facilitating the experiences you might have had, I development of peer-learning encourage you to get in touch! groups. Finally, the success of these interventions will be measured Developing self-regulated learning using quantitative or qualitative strategies: A skill often taken for methodologies depending on the granted but essential throughout sample size. Supervisor: Dr Reyne university and post-graduate life is Pullen. the ability to regulate learning and place learned content within a broader Measuring the effectiveness of context. Previous literature offers embedding technology into learning multiple approaches to developing activities: The needs of students are this skill including the incorporation of rapidly changing and alongside this the prompting questions to guide students technologies available for education in developing these strategies. increase equally so. The question then arises, what technologies should This project will involve developing be utilised? In what ways can these supporting materials to assist students technologies support concepts or with the development of self-regulated processes unique to chemistry? learning strategies based on literature How do these technologies lead to recommendations. These materials will a positive change – whether this is then be tested and measured through academic, cultural, or accessibility? qualitative methodology to explore how students use these strategies. This project would involve developing Supervisor: Dr Reyne Pullen. an intervention based around the use of technology in some form Supporting the transition of (negotiated between myself and secondary students to tertiary you) in the classroom. Depending on education: The transition from the technology we would measure secondary to tertiary education can its effect on one of the following: be a jarring move for many students. academic achievement, accessibility More so even, for those who may not of abstract concepts, student time 52 A/PROF SIEGBERT ‘SIGGI’ SCHMID
Room 412B
T: +61 2 9351 4196
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/siegbert-schmid.html
My research interests are both in Chemistry Education Supervisor: A/Prof. Siggi Schmid with other members of and Functional Materials Chemistry. Chemistry Education the Chemistry Education and Communication Research research projects are designed to improve our Theme understanding of how we best support student learning, in the widest possible sense. My group also focuses on Sustainable energy storage developing novel and improved ceramic materials for use Rechargeable lithium ion batteries are widely used in in a range of technological applications. portable electronics and hybrid or electric vehicles. Also, producing energy through sustainable means requires All projects on offer are student-centred, i.e. the direction cheap and efficient storage to maximise the benefits. these projects take will be based on your interests and Compounds that can reversibly insert lithium have strengths. potential to be used in rechargeable lithium ion batteries. Our current program looks at a range of suitable Inclusive Learning by Design compounds from defect perovskites to spinels and olivine At the School of Chemistry, we aim to build an inclusive type structures. This project aims to synthesise target culture for staff and students. We have embraced compounds and to examine their chemical and changes in the undergraduate curriculum that offer electrochemical lithium intercalation behaviour. The diverse pathways for science students. products will be examined using X-ray and neutron Projects in this domain will develop, for example, diffraction at both national and overseas facilities. experimental procedures that allow students who are This project is in collaboration with Professor H. blind or low vision, to work in the laboratory Ehrenberg, KIT, Germany and Dr William Brant, Uppsala independently and empower them to be active University, Sweden. participants in their learning. Further projects can be Supervisor: A/Prof. Siggi Schmid. designed with interested students. Modulations and other Challenges Assessment Design Electrode materials in rechargeable Li- or Na-ion With increased emphasis on graduate qualities @Sydney batteries, that follow a solid-solution mechanism, change and nationally, and moving from aspirational to composition over very large ranges while maintaining verifiable, it is essential that we confirm that our their structure type. This is reminiscent of assessments are fit for purpose or adapt them if they are compositionally and displacively flexible systems that not. We developed a framework to do this in form incommensurate composite structures. While the straightforward fashion. compounds exist in 3D, their structure descriptions need higher dimensional space. Is that for you?
Figure 1. Schematic of electrode, with changing lithium concentration. Lithium ions are located where the modulation function (vertical centre) has its maxima.
Figure 1. Two parts assessment: Is the targeted learning outcome covered in the assessment (you would hope so!), and is it weighted heavily enough in the marking scheme to confirm attainment of it? Applying this scheme will allow you to classify assessments and in doing so, important lessons can be learned for assessment design. 53 DR SHANE WILKINSON
Room 353
T: +61 2 9114 1141
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/shane-wilkinson.html
We live in a high-speed digital era where new We aim to develop an IA system for classrooms and technologies are merging all the time. My research laboratories that utilises Smart Glasses technology to focuses on exploring emerging technologies to empower stream AI-filtered data from student databases, learning educators with the latest tools that will shape students management systems (eg CANVAS) and electronic into the scientists of tomorrow. Additionally, these tools laboratory notebooks (ELN) directly to the teacher. could be utilised to allow for more inclusive classrooms Acting on live data, a teacher would be able to adjust and laboratories by supporting students with diverse their classroom management by focussing their attention needs. Another aspect of a digital era is the generation to flagged “at-risk” students during a classroom or of data, and lots of it. My research also looks at how we laboratory tasks and address their needs. The system can effectively utilise this data to make evidence-based could also live-stream potential safety issues in a pedagogical decisions and predictions, improve the laboratory class so that the teacher can monitor or efficiency and quality of teaching, and deliver a intervene before they become a problem. personalised teaching experience to the students. Supervisor: Dr Shane Wilkinson
My projects span across the disciplines of chemistry, Augmented Reality in the Classroom: Augmented reality education, data science and programming with a (AR) has been used in mobile apps for years from popular particular interest in the use of augmented reality as tool games such as Pokemon Go to applying filters on social in education. media apps like Snapchat or Instagram. AR technology is a new tool we are looking to implement in the teaching and learning of science especially in the practical aspects of chemistry for both student and educator use. It has the potential to forge strong context-based learning through its ability to live-stream media and content to whatever the user is viewing and manipulating, in real- time. We aim to discover, develop and assess new AR applications that could be introduced in both undergraduate and postgraduate training and education. Supervisors: Dr Shane Wilkinson, Dr Stephen George- Williams “Bionic eyes”: Smart glasses technology has the potential to promote an inclusive laboratory or classroom experience. The glasses can overlay, in real-time, alternate colours or contrasts to a colour-blind user so they can fully visualise all aspects of the content. In another example, smart glasses were used to convert vision to soundscapes (human echolocation) that allowed for near-to-completely blind users to gauge proximity, Intelligence Augmentation (IA): In an Intelligence size and shape of objects. Another demonstrated Augmentation (IA) system, artificial intelligence (AI) plays example of smart glasses technology is their ability to an assisting role in enhancing the human intelligence translate live text and audio into different languages rather than replacing it. For example, AI would analyse which would break down language barriers and open our data and present a series of options based on its classrooms to the world. We want to explore how these algorithm and probability calculations but would not be applications and technologies could be implemented and responsible for making a decision. As humans, we could improved to allow for more inclusive laboratories and then choose which option to proceed with based on the classrooms AI proposed data as well as our own visual cues and “gut Supervisors: Shane Wilkinson, A/Prof. Siggi Schmid, feeling”. A/Prof. Alice Motion 54 ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ALICE MOTION
Room 356a
T: +61 2 8627 0823
W: https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/alice-motion.html
Research in the SCOPE (Science Communication, Communicating chemistry: Chemistry is a Outreach, Participation and Education) Group aims tremendous force for good in our world, but not to connect people with science by making it more enough people know this. How do we spread the accessible. Using open science, education and word? What are the most effective ways to outreach, our projects include open source drug communicate our subject to non-experts, to help discovery research for diseases such as malaria and people feel more connected to our discipline and to mycetoma; research into public engagement with increase the general scientific literacy of our society? chemistry through science outreach and citizen Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter science; and research into science education. Rutledge
Open Source Drug Discovery: Solving wicked problems like antimicrobial resistance, malaria, or TB, requires new ways of thinking. Doing science ‘open source’ involves collaborating with everybody, sharing data and ideas in real time, using the tools and principles of open source software development. Join us to work on the Open Source Malaria or Open Source Mycetoma projects, and other projects in open source drug discovery. Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter Building a Modern Chemistry Kit: This project will Rutledge seek to build a ‘Hello Fresh’ for chemistry experiments, where schoolteachers, lecturers or Breaking Good – exploring citizen science projects science outreach teams can order bespoke chemical in chemistry: Citizen science empowers members of demonstrations suitable for specific audiences or the public to contribute to authentic research syllabus requirements. Investigations into the projects and knowledge creation. Breaking Good is a pedagogical importance of practical demonstrations citizen science initiative that engages high school in science education will inform your research into students, undergraduates and citizens to contribute safe, suitable and effective demonstrations for to projects that improve human health. Join Breaking diverse audiences. Good to develop process-style chemical synthesis for Supervisor: A/Prof Alice Motion schools, to create and evaluate learning resources in chemistry or to explore ways to engage non-chemists Inclusive chemistry communication and in drug discovery projects. education: This project will explore ways to make Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter chemistry (and science more broadly) more inclusive Rutledge in formal and/or informal settings. Science belongs to everyone, but some groups of people may not feel connected to, or represented in science, because of structural barriers that exist. In this project, you will research methods to improve the accessibility of science, and design and implement interventions to widen participation in science. Supervisor: A/Prof Alice Motion
These are just some of many projects in the SCOPE Group Please feel free to contact me to learn more about these and other projects available. 55 PROFESSOR PETER RUTLEDGE
Room 547
T: +61 2 9351 5020
E: [email protected] W: https://sydney.edu.au/science/about/our- people/academic-staff/peter-rutledge.html
Research in the Rutledge group uses the tools of Disrupting protein aggregation: amyloid fibrils are organic synthesis and chemical biology to develop associated with protein mis-folding and disease (e.g. new antibiotics, antifungals, and anticancer drugs, Alzheimer’s and prion-associated diseases). But they disrupt protein aggregation, and study protein also play key roles in structures that are vital to the function and evolution. We are also interested in survival and virulence of fungi. We have discovered a chemistry education and communication research. family of small molecules that disrupt the formation of amyloid fibrils. We are using these compounds to Antibiotics discovery: Bacterial resistance to study amyloid assembly and develop new ways to antibiotics is an ever more urgent challenge for treat diseases, both those that involve protein mis- modern science and medicine. We are developing folding, and those involving pathogenic fungi. new ways to combat resistant bacteria, e.g.: Supervisors: Prof Peter Rutledge and A/Prof Margie 1. Building new organometallic antibacterials with Sunde (SOMS) high potency against tuberculosis and related species (with Prof Jamie Triccas, CPC). Open Source Drug Discovery: Solving wicked 2. Making ‘resistance-activated’ antibiotics. problems like antimicrobial resistance, malaria, or 3. Screening natural product extracts for new TB, requires new ways of thinking. Doing science antimicrobial activity (with Dr Ern Lacey, MST). ‘open source’ involves collaborating with everybody, 4. Synthesising cyclobutanone β-lactams as β- sharing data and ideas in real time, using the tools lactamase inhibitors, using biocatalysis. and principles of open source software 5. Mining microbial genomes for new bioactive development. Join us to work on the Open Source compounds (with Prof Greg Challis, Monash). Malaria or Open Source Mycetoma projects, and Working on one of these projects you will develop other projects in open source drug discovery. skills in organic synthesis, chromatography and Supervisors: A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter spectroscopy, or bioinformatics (genome mining Rutledge project), and may have opportunity to conduct Communicating chemistry: Chemistry is a biological assays with our collaborators. tremendous force for good in our world, but not Supervisor: Prof Peter Rutledge enough people know this. How do we spread the word? What are the most effective ways to Evolving new old proteins: Ancestral sequence communicate our subject to non-experts, to help reconstruction is a technique that allows us to study people feel more connected to our discipline and protein evolution and resurrect ancient enzymes. increase the general scientific literacy of our society? We are using this and related approaches to A/Prof Alice Motion and Prof Peter investigate how oxygenase enzymes evolved over Supervisors: Rutledge time and what they did before the world had oxygen, then apply this knowledge to build new, Please feel free to contact me to learn more about improved biocatalysts for the future. these and other projects available. Supervisors: Prof Peter Rutledge and A/Prof Nick Coleman (SOLES)
N N N M N M Ligand Ligand Protein Metal Complex Activated Protein A 'target-activated metal complex‘ Potent activity against mycobacterial infections like TB. Chem Eur J 2018 24 1573 J Med Chem 2018 61 3595