This research focuses on the rational design, synthesis, and characterization of novel sorbent materials for use in chromatographic separations to enhance selectivity of molecular, biological, and nanometer sized analytes in complex matrices leading to improved measurement capabilities in the areas of environmental, health and safety, nutritional/dietary, and pharmaceutical science. Sorbent materials currently under investigation include perfluorocarbons, templated alkylsilanes, novel polymers, and mixed-mode phases bonded to metal oxide-based monolithic and particulate support materials (e.g., silica, alumina, zirconia, titania, and hafnia). Sorbent materials showing enhanced or unique chromatographic separation performance are structurally and chemically characterized using standard analytical techniques and are modeled using molecular simulations. Techniques used to structurally and chemically characterize the sorbent materials include, but are not limited to nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and X-ray photoelectronic spectroscopy. Molecular simulations (molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo) are used to elucidate the important interactions between solute, sorbent, and solvent and as a design tool towards the development of other novel materials. This interdisciplinary work is appropriate to those with expertise in fields such as analytical separations, spectroscopy, materials science, (in)organic synthesis, and theoretical modeling.

 

key words

Characterization; Chromatography; Microscopy; Molecular modeling; Molecular simulation; Nanomaterials; Spectroscopy; Stationary phases; Surface; Synthesis;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral applicants