Walking Molecules on Two-dimensional Functionalised Surfaces: Using Supramolecular Chemistry to Control Motion.

It has long been hypothesised that molecules can be employed as nanoscale machines. This project will develop the idea of molecules that can walk across predetermined pathways. The project requires two major components: i) The synthesis of suitable molecules for both the formation of the two-dimensional self-assembled arrays and the 'walker' molecule. This aspect of the project will be overseen by Champness who has extensive experience in the synthesis of suitable molecules. ii) The self-assembly of the target molecules on 2D materials, and characterisation by scanning probe microscopies. Saywell has extensive experience in this field and will supervise this aspect of the project.