The research in our group focuses on the
synthesis and characterization of novel inorganic transition metal complexes.
Primarily, we are interested in octahedral, d-6 metal complexes of ruthenium
and/or osmium. Our goal is to synthesize complexes that exhibit
well-defined geometries for possible incorporation into molecular
electronic devices and/or liquid-based photovoltaics.
Much of the chemistry we pursue is
based upon the complexes trans-[Ru(pyridine)4(L)(Cl)]+ or on
trans-[Ru(dppm)2(L)Cl]+. By changing "L", we can change the
photochemical and electrochemical properties of the resulting complex.
We are also interested in the reactivity of the complexes we prepare and have
a number of studies underway to investigate the possibility of replacing the
halide with a wide array of other possible ligands.
We are also are beginning to become interested in the synthesis and
utilization of ruthenium and europium complexes as fluorescent probes for the detection and
analysis of DNA.
And finally, in a
productive collaboration with the
Jones Group
at SUNY Binghamton, we
are synthesizing molecules for studies aimed at enhancing the sheet
conductivity of conducting polymers. This is an exciting area of
research which bridges basic chemical research and material science.
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Ruthenium
Rocks!