Research in the Adronov group is mainly concerned with the synthesis and study of novel nanoscale structures that may eventually have applications in diverse areas such as molecular electronics, sensory devices, new materials, and macromolecular therapeutics. Structures having a nanometer size regime provide numerous practical and intellectual challenges to the synthetic chemist. Taking nature's example, such structures can be extremely useful and interesting, if one learns how to reliably prepare and manipulate them in a facile manner. By studying the macroscopic effects of simple variations in the molecular architecture and composition of functional building-blocks, we hope to infer structure-property relationships that will enable a greater understanding of large macromolecular assemblies (both covalent and non-covalent) and allow for the design of more effective, functional structures. At the heart of all my projects is organic synthesis, while the end goals of the research will be to solve practical problems that will hopefully have an impact on the "real world".
Current research projects can be separated into two main areas, including the polymer chemistry of carbon nanotubes, and dendrimer-based therapeutics. In the former, both covalent and non-covalent carbon nanotube functionalization strategies are being explored, with a focus on producing functional materials that combine the properties of carbon nanotubes with those of other nano-scale structures. In the area of dendrimer-based therapeutics, the emphasis is on the development and investigation of simultaneous diagnostic imaging and drug delivery agents.
Nano-Materials and Polymer Architectures
