Nicholas Evans

Lecturer in Chemistry, Lancaster University

My research interests are in the preparation of receptor molecules capable of the recognition of challenging targets such as ion pairs and chiral molecules. It is anticipated that the most promising of these receptors could then be incorporated into sensory devices for the guest species which they preferentially bind.

I have experience in the preparation of interlocked molecular hosts and enantiopure metal complexes, which I seek to utilize in the generation of receptors capable of recognizing increasingly intricate guest species. The research combines both synthetic and analytical chemistry skills, and its impact extends beyond the primary aim of molecular recognition with potential benefits to other areas of scientific investigation, including catalysis and pharmaceutical drug development.

Selected Publications:

The Rapid Synthesis and Dynamic Behaviour of an Isophthalamide [2]Catenane
C. N. Marrs and N. H. Evans,
Organic and Biomolecular Chemistry, 2015, 13, 11021-11025.

Advances in Anion Supramolecular Chemistry: From Recognition to Chemical Applications
N. H. Evans and P. D. Beer,
Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 2014, 53, 11716-11754.

Complete Stereocontrol in the Synthesis of Macrocyclic Lanthanide Complexes: Direct Formation of Enantiopure Systems for CPL Applications
N. H. Evans, R. Carr, M. Delbianco, R. Pal and D. Parker,
Dalton Transactions, 2013, 42, 15610-15616.

Solution and Surface-Confined Chloride Anion Templated Redox-Active Ferrocene Catenanes
N. H. Evans, H. Rahman, A. V. Leontiev, N. D. Greenham, G. A. Orlowski, Q. Zeng, R. M. J. Jacobs, C. J. Serpell, N. L. Kilah, J. J. Davis and P. D. Beer,
Chemical Science, 2012, 3, 1080-1089.

Chloride Anion Templated Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a Handcuff Catenane
N. H. Evans, C. J. Serpell and P. D. Beer,
Angewandte Chemie, International Edition, 2011, 50, 2507-2510.

As a lecturer, I am a module convenor for four undergraduate synthetic (inorganic and organic) chemistry courses. I am recognised as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.