description David Leigh Overview
David Leigh (born 1963) is a British chemist and professor at the University of Manchester, recognized for his work on mechanically interlocked molecules and molecular machines. His research group has synthesized rotaxanes, catenanes, and molecular knots, and developed artificial molecular motors and pumps that operate through ratcheting mechanisms. This field was recognized by the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, awarded to Jean-Pierre Sauvage, Fraser Stoddart, and Bernard Feringa. Leigh's group has reported some of the tightest synthetic molecular knots and developed autonomous, chemically fuelled molecular motors.
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What are molecular machines and what has David Leigh built?
Molecular machines are synthetic molecules designed to perform mechanical functions at the nanoscale, analogous to macroscopic machines. David Leigh's research group at the University of Manchester has synthesized rotaxanes, catenanes, molecular knots, and molecular motors that can perform directed work.
What is a rotaxane and how does Leigh use it in molecular machines?
A rotaxane is a mechanically interlocked molecule consisting of a linear component threaded through a macrocyclic ring, with bulky stopper groups preventing the ring from slipping off. Leigh has used rotaxanes as the basis for building molecular machines, including molecular shuttles and switchable catalytic systems where the ring position controls chemical reactivity.
What molecular knots has David Leigh synthesized?
Leigh's group has achieved the synthesis of several topologically complex molecular knots, including trefoil knots and pentafoil knots. These are among the most intricate non-trivial molecular topologies ever made by synthesis and have potential applications in new materials and catalysis.
Where does David Leigh work?
David Leigh is a professor at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. His research group at Manchester is recognized as one of the world's leading centers for the design and synthesis of mechanically interlocked molecules and artificial molecular machines.
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