Dynamic Through-Space Interactions Driven by Molecular Motors

Different from the well-established theories based on through-bond conjugation, through-space interaction (TSI) has been proved to be another essential electronic interaction.

However, it is still challenging to manipulate TSI and utilize it to develop organic functional materials due to the difficulties in conformational manipulation and the lack of structure-property relationships of TSI.

Hence, this proposal aims to study the photophysical and electronic properties, dynamic behaviors, and working mechanisms of noncovalent TSI with the help of light-driven molecular motors.

Herein, three objectives will be mainly investigated: i) a new type of molecular motor driven by the noncovalent conformational lock; ii) dynamic through-space charge transfer and multistate luminescent switches; iii) single-molecular junctions with dynamic TSI.

These objectives will be realized using experimental and theoretical combined strategies which broadly interconnect multidisciplinary techniques and knowledge. The exploitation and dissemination are also involved in enhancing the expected outcomes and impacts of this proposal.

Besides, the experienced researcher (ER) bears a strong background in photophysical chemistry, TSI, luminescent materials, and theoretical calculation, which is recognized by many awards and good publications.

The host lab and supervisor have been renowned for molecular motor, photochemistry, and dynamic chemistry for 30-years, which has built a great experimental platform and scientific prestige, including Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

Hence, the two-way transfer of knowledge will be smoothly launched based on the complementary experience between the two sides.

In addition, a series of training plans and public activities are proposed to promote the ER's academic development, career perspectives, and employability.

A detailed work plan and risk management are also reasonably discussed to guarantee the feasibility and high coherence of the proposed work packages.