Molecular recognition is central to all biological processes and is the basis of supramolecular chemistry and other related fields, for example, catalysis. We believe molecular recognition may provide the final solutions to some of the problems in the fields of analytical sciences, biomedical sciences, environmental sciences and materials sciences. However, the recognition ability of known synthetic receptors are far from satisfactory, especially when compared with that of bioreceptors. The Jiang group aims at exploring novel molecular recognition with biomimetic mechanisms and  at providing model systems for understanding the fundamental principles of biomolecular recognition. The tools we used are the home-made, macrocyclic receptors with a biomimetic cavity feature. The knowledge learned will be further applied to sensing, separation, catalysis, machinery, self-assembly, and tuning biological activity.

The research scientists involved are exposed to diverse discplines, including organic synthesis, catalysis, supramolecular chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, materials chemistry,  and polymer chemistry, and a variety of technologies, including computer modelling, 2D NMR, mass spectrometry, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), stopped-flow spectroscopy, spectroscopy, recycling HPLC, DLS, TEM, SEM…

Research Interests: 

1. Design and Synthesis of Macrocyclic Receptors with a Biomimetic Cavity Feature;

2. Molecular Recognition of Polar Molecules/Groups in Water and the Related Physical Organic Chemistry;

3. Applications of Molecular Recognition in Sensing, Machines, Materials, Self-Assembly, and Chemical Biology.