Our goal is to engineer biomimetic molecules using organic synthesis as a tool and amino acids as building blocks. We exploit the functional group diversity of amino acids and the hydrogen bonding capability of peptides to develop interesting 3-dimensional supramolecular structures. In particular, we mimic natural pore forming proteins or ion channels found in the cell membranes. The ion selectivity and the reversible opening-closing or “gating” behaviour of these molecules can be potentially used for the development of therapeutics and molecular switches.

Specific research focus areas:
· Peptide Synthesis - Development of improved supports and coupling reagents.
· Self-Assembly - Design of robust three-dimensional peptide derived pores.
· Function – Design of selective and gated synthetic ion channels.