IN PERSON EVENT - REGISTRATION IS  CLOSED. The access to the room will be guaranteed only to registered attendees. No registered people might be let in just before the starting of the seminar if seats remain free due to no-shows..

By Prof. Ben L. Feringa, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen Nijenborgh, The Netherlands

Abstract: Beyond the current frontiers of chemical sciences there is vast uncharted territory to control dynamic function based on molecular and supramolecular approaches. Taking inspiration from Nature’s design, the creative power of synthetic chemistry provides unlimited opportunities to realize our own molecular world as we experience every day with products ranging from drugs to displays. In the art of building small we explore the fascinating field of molecular nanoscience. Among the major challenges ahead in the design of complex artificial molecular systems is the control over dynamic functions and responsive behaviour. A major goal is to gain control over translational and rotary motion. The focus is on my journey in the world of molecular switches and motors creating opportunities for smart drugs, adaptive catalysts or responsive materials.

Information on http://www.benferinga.com

Biography: Ben L. Feringa obtained his PhD degree at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands under the guidance of Professor Hans Wynberg. After working as a research scientist at Shell in the Netherlands and the UK, he was appointed lecturer and in 1988 full professor at the University of Groningen and named the Jacobus H. van't Hoff Distinguished Professor of Molecular Sciences in 2004. In 2008 he was appointed Academy Professor and was knighted by Her Majesty the Queen of the Netherlands. Feringa’s research has been recognized with a number of awards including the Koerber European Science Award (2003), the Spinoza Award (2004), the Norrish Award of the ACS (2007), the Paracelsus medal (2008), the Nagoya gold medal (2013), ACS Cope Scholar Award 2015, Chemistry for the Future Solvay Prize (2015), The 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry and the Euchems gold medal. Feringa’s research interest includes stereochemistry, organic synthesis, asymmetric catalysis, molecular switches and motors, self-assembly, molecular nanosystems and photopharmacology.

Invited by Prof. Daniel Maspoch, Supramolecular Nanochemistry and Materials Group Leader, ICN2.