Research Interests
Open to PhD applications in: Catalysis for sustainable chemical synthesis and artificial metalloenzymes. We are actively engaged in the design of catalysts for cleaner fluorination reactions for pharmaceuticals, design and preparation of artificial metalloenzymes, and the preparation and heterogenization of catalytic ionic liquids.
Public outreach & key achievements
- In the EPSRC UK catalysis hub I am theme lead for chemical tranformations in and with water.
- External examiner for MSc Green and Sustainable Chemistry, the University of Nottingham (2016 – 2020).
- Member of the Scientific Editorial Board of PLOS one (2011 – present).
- Expert referee for the European Research Council. Member of the Outer International Assessment Board of the Irish Research Council.
Research students
| PhD area | Stable basic and base stable ionic liquids for catalysis |
| Years of study | 2016-2019 |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
Alumni: Where are they now
| PhD title |
Investigating the role of bespoke materials in bio and chemocatalysis for novel applications in sustainable chemistry |
| Years of study | 2014-2018 |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
| Current Position | Graduate analytical chemist at Almac, Craigavon, Northern Ireland |
| PhD title | Ionic Liquids and Iridium Hydrogen Transfer Catalysts for the Reaction of Renewable Alcohols |
| Years of study | 2011-2015 |
| Country | China |
| Current Position | Senior research chemist at Algaecytes, Kent, UK |
| PhD title | Heterogenizing Homogeneous Hydrogenation Catalysts |
| Years of study |
2003-2007 |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
| Current Position | Qualified Person (QP), Terumo BCT Ltd., Larne, Northern Ireland |