Mechanically interlocked chiroptic photoswitches towards next generation optical technologies

About the project

Using light to remotely control chiroptical properties represents an exciting new avenue to create advanced communication technologies. This project will develop fundamental new supramolecular photoswitching technologies based on mechanically interlocked molecules with a diverse application space, and will include training in organic synthesis, photophysical analysis and self-assembly.

Photoswitches are molecules which undergo reversible reactions in response to light, enabling the remote control of matter at the nanoscopic scale. Chiroptic outputs, namely circular dichroism and circularly polarised luminescence, can be modulated by appropriately functionalised photoswitches.

These are foundational to the development of variety of new technology areas, including optical computing, advanced sensing and communications.

This project will use mechanically interlocked molecules to deliver a fundamentally new class of chiroptic switch, building upon designs recently published by our group (for reference, Mechanically Interlocked Indigo Photoswitches and ‘Click’-able hemiindigo triazole photoswitches with switchable fluorescence ).

You will synthesise a series of mechanically interlocked photoswitches, and will be measure their photophysical properties using a combination of spectroscopies. With successful design criteria in place, these will be adapted to use non-covalent interactions between the components of the mechanically interlocked molecules to drive chiral conformations and thus switchable chiroptic response.

The successful candidate will receive training in:

We welcome applicants with a degree in Chemistry and an interest in applying chemistry to real-world defence and security challenges. Familiarity with, or experience in, organic synthesis would be preferred, but specialist experience across all areas of the project is not expected. We welcome applicants who are interested in developing new skills and engaging with partners and collaborators.

The Williams group hosts researchers from a range of backgrounds working on varied projects, and prides itself on offering a supportive and welcoming environment.

For more information, please visit the Williams group website .

• complex organic synthesis and associated analysis
• photophysical characterisation
• supramolecular binding studies

Lead supervisor

• Lead supervisor: Dr George Williams Lecturer

Dr George Williams

• Dr George Williams: Lecturer

Professor Eugen Stulz

• DNA chemistry
• Chemical Biology
• Medicinal chemistry

Entry requirements

You must have an undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree) or its international equivalent in chemistry or a related discipline.

We expect you to have an interest in:

Familiarity with, or experience in, organic synthesis would be preferred.

Experience in any combination of synthetic chemistry, spectroscopy, supramolecular chemistry or photophysical characterisation may also be helpful, but applicants are not expected to have experience in all of these areas.

Specialist training in the techniques required for the project will be provided, and we welcome applicants interested in developing their skills across these areas.

• supramolecular chemistry
• photoswitchable molecules
• functional materials

Fees and funding

For candidates looking to complete a PhD or EngD full-time we offer an enhanced tax-free stipend of up to £30k per year, along with a substantial budget for research, travel, and centre activities.

CISDnS is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break or are transitioning into a new role. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance.

How to apply

Apply now

Please apply via the online portal and select:

Applications should include:

• Academic year: 2027/28
• If you will be full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Search for "complex integrated systems"
• Select either PhD or EngD – if you are unsure, select PhD
• Add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, email our Doctoral College (doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk) .

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr George Williams (g.t.williams@soton.ac.uk).

Research areas