Biocompatible Ionic Liquids - Preserving Bioactive Structure and Function

This groundbreaking research program based on recent work by the CI will forge the way into a new field at the boundaries of chemistry and biology. It will generate novel insights and applications wherever preservation of structure and function of bioactive molecules is vital. This project will develop the family of purpose designed biocompatible ionic liquids, investigate their structural role as unique, stabilizing solvents for proteins, and as novel drugs, and explore their applications via key collaborations. This will create new biotechnologies in therapeutics, agrichemicals, biosensors and whole cell preservation for a range of applications from delivering haemophilia drugs to preservation of threatened species such as coral.