Singh’s group specializes in molecular designs of stimuli-responsive self-assemblies aimed at innovative formation of supramolecular structures. These range from meso- to macro-scale, leveraging bottom-up self-assembly techniques for applications in:

• Catalysis

• Material properties

• Aggregation-Induced Emission (AIE)

• 3D Cell Culture etc.

Core Research Themes

1. Non-Equilibrium Self-Assemblies

• Objective: Design of reaction cycles to drive non-equilibrium self-assembly.

• Key Features:

  • Dynamic and responsive systems fueled by chemical energy.

  • Development of reaction cycles with low waste accumulation.

2. 3D Persistent Superstructures

• Objective: Creation of giant, responsive, and reversible superstructures with macroscopic dimensions.

• Key Features:

  • Focus on persistent architectures formed via bottom-up assembly of small organic building blocks.

  • Target applications in advanced materials and functional supramolecular architectures.

3. 'Reactive' Coacervates

• Objective: Development of simple and complex coacervates with chemical responsiveness.

• Key Features:

  • Capable of carrying out selective reactions and supramolecular synthesis.

  • Exhibit dynamic behaviors like morphology changes and self-division.

  • Potential as active materials for reconfigurable or functional systems.

Research Vision

The group aims to pioneer dynamic supramolecular materials with unique structural and functional properties. This involves pushing the boundaries of stimuli-responsive designs and exploring innovative, sustainable approaches for self-assembly processes across scales.