Overview
Topic status: We're looking for students to study this topic.
Project Summary
Resorcinarenes are macrocyclic structures which are attractive scaffolds for use in both biological and chemical applications. They have been used as templates for fluorescent molecular sensors by combining a recognition moiety (ionophore) with a signalling moiety (fluorophore). In an effort to develop new selective fluorescent sensors for the detection of toxic metal cations, this research proposes to synthesise resorcinarene dimers bearing fluorescent reporter molecules which should show a reduction in fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) upon binding selective metal cations.
Expected outcomes, applications and/or benefits
The expected outcome form this work is the development of a hinged molecular capsule bearing fluorescent tags which can signal the binding of specific metal ions. The application of this work is in environmental monitoring as it will allow the early detection and containment of specific metal ions, thereby alleviating potential toxic effect to humans. Such developments will ultimately benefit our society and influence the way we utilise our land, water, mineral and energy resources.
Students will gain synthetic skills in organic chemistry and chromatography and instrumental experience with compound characterisation (NMR, MS, IR, fluorescence, UV/vis etc.
Required student skills/experience
Students require a minimum GPA of 5.5 and should have at least be undertaking a minor in chemistry during their undergraduate degree. Students with interests in organic chemistry are preferred. 6-12 week project from November 2012 to January 2013.
- Study level
- Vacation research experience scholarship
- Supervisors
- QUT
- Organisational unit
Science and Engineering Faculty
- Research area
- Keywords
- fluorescent, capsules, metal, cations
- Contact
- Contact the supervisor for more information
Dr Kathryn Fairfull-Smith
