Gerhard Ertl Lecture 2017

Professor Dr. Bernard L. Feringa,
Nobel laureate in chemistry 2016,

Stratingh Institute for Chemistry
University of Groningen, Netherlands

is this year’s winner of the Gerhard Ertl Lecture.

LECTURE

Professor Dr. Bernard L. Feringa
Title: "From Molecules to Dynamic Molecular Systems"

Friday, December 8, 2017 at 4:00 pm
Harnack House - Hahn Lecture Hall
Ihnestr. 16-20
14195 Berlin-Dahlem

The lecture will be followed by a reception in the "Planck-Lobby" of the building.

Abstract

The fascinating molecular motors and machines that sustain life offer a great source of inspiration to the molecular explorer at the nanoscale.  Among the major challenges ahead in the design of complex artificial molecular systems is the control over dynamic functions and responsive far-from-equilibrium behaviour. Chemical systems ultimately require integration of structure, organization and function of multi-component dynamic molecular assemblies at different hierarchical levels. A major goal is to achieve and exploit translational and rotary motion.

In this presentation the focus is on the dynamics of functional molecular systems as well as triggering and assembly processes. We design switches and motors in which molecular motion is coupled to specific functions. Responsive behaviour will be illustrated in self-assembly, responsive materials and photopharmacology. The design, synthesis and functioning of rotary molecular motors will also be presented with a prospect toward future dynamic molecular systems.

Link to Gerhard Ertl Lecture at Fritz Haber Institute.