Dr Jack Chen

Associate Investigator

Functional Nanostructures

Phone:

+64 9 921 9999, ext. 8398

Address:
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Private Bag 92006
Auckland

• 
• jack.chen@aut.ac.nz
• 

Biography

Jack Chen is a Senior Lecturer in Chemistry at the Auckland University at Technology, teaching organic chemistry, molecular design and general chemistry. He conducted his PhD and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Auckland with Professor Margaret Brimble, working on the synthesis of spirastrellolide B - a potent protein phosphatase inhibitor with potential anti-cancer properties.

In 2011 he moved to Bristol, UK for 3 years where I worked on developing synthetic methodology involving a novel form of activated allylboron reagents. In 2014 he took up a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Padova, Italy, to study the use of gold nanoparticle-based supramolecular systems of chiral catalysts.

Research interests

Our group is interested in the way nanoparticles and molecules self-organise into functional architectures. We are currently introducing responsive elements into systems that allow them to respond to light, transmit signals and demonstrate adaptation.

Such systems offer exciting possibilities for the development of molecular machines, smart materials and molecular electronics.