Houk-Jung Organic Colloquium 247: Prof. Abby Knight
2023-11-09 16:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Knight Flyer
Title: Biomimetic Hierarchical Structure in Synthetic Macromolecules
Abstract: The remarkable functions of proteins, from refined binding profiles to efficient catalysis, are currently unrivaled by synthetic macromolecules due to complex hierarchical structure in natural systems. Inspired by this grand challenge, the Knight group is at the interface of chemical biology and polymer science, developing synthetic strategies to control hierarchical structure and high-throughput platforms to understand fundamental design principles underlying macromolecule conformation. These research efforts are motivated by the need for innovative strategies to address global health and environmental challenges, where our foundational work informs the de novo design and development of functional polymeric materials.

Chem 248 Organic Chemistry Student Seminar: Marcelo Mazariego
2023-11-13 15:00 - 16:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Lisa Fredin
2023-11-13 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Fredin Flyer
Title: Modeling Photoactive Organic Materials
Abstract: Chemical intuition is well developed for single molecules but the extent to which disorder in solid state molecular materials contributes to their properties is poorly understood. In particular, molecular materials move charges in some directions much more efficiently than others due to the packing of the molecules. Noncovalent interactions between the molecular components mean that dynamic disorder in these materials can have a large impact on the electronic properties of these materials at room temperature. This work explores how packing and vibrations in organic crystals affect charge transport in light driven devices. In particular, the size of dynamic disorder due to phonons or electronic excitation of molecules in the crystal is predicted for well-ordered high-mobility single crystals.

Jeffrey I. Zink Inorganic Chemistry Seminar Series: Phillip J. Milner
2023-11-15 16:00 - 17:15 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer:Prof. Phillip Milner Flyer
Title: “Simplifying Synthesis at the Interface of Organic and Materials Chemistry”
Abstract: Porous framework materials, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), are highly tunable materials with myriad potential applications ranging from chemical separations to gas storage to catalysis. This is due to the unusual local environment offered by their pores. Herein we will discuss how this tunability can be used to unlock new reactive species relevant to organic synthesis and catalysis, focusing on fluorination chemistry, which is critical to the pharmaceutical, polymer, and agrochemical industries. We will also draw inspiration from organic chemistry for the design of new chemical separations and electrocatalytically active materials.

Distinguished Lecture Series: Prof. David Christianson
2023-11-16 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Title: Directing Biosynthesis with Modular Architecture in Terpene Cyclases
Abstract: Terpene cyclases catalyze the most complex chemical reactions in biology, in that more than half of the carbon atoms in an isoprenoid substrate undergo changes in bonding or hybridization during a multi-step cyclization cascade that proceeds through multiple carbocation intermediates. Although the substrate pool for these enzymes is limited to only a handful of linear isoprenoids, more than 100,000 terpenoid natural products have been identified to date. Crystal structures of terpene cyclases reveal common, modular protein folds that direct unique catalytic strategies underlying this exquisite chemodiversity. Most recently, structural studies of bifunctional assembly-line terpene synthases using cryo-EM and other biophysical techniques show how the first two steps of terpene biosynthesis are combined in nanoscale oligomeric assemblies. Cluster channeling within the oligomer ensures efficient carbon management in wild-type and mutant enzymes.

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar – Stuart Conway and Soumitra Athavale
2023-11-17 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Chem 248 Organic Chemistry Student Seminar: Aris Rubio
2023-11-20 15:00 - 16:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Lu Wei
2023-11-20 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Wei Flyer
Title: Functional Bond-Selective Microscopy for Subcellular Bioanalysis
Abstract: Innovations in optical spectroscopy and microscopy have revolutionized our understanding in live biological systems at the sub-cellular levels. In this talk, I will present our recent advances in developing and applying functional bond-selective spectro-microscopy for investigating subcellular biological activities with rich chemical information. In the first part of my talk, I will present the novel coupling of the stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) imaging, a nonlinear Raman imaging modality, with the newly developed chemical strategies for Raman-guided intracellular metabolic mapping; quantitative subcellular analysis of cytoplasmic aggregates; photo-activatable and photo-switchable SRS spectral-imaging; intracellular sensing through alkyne-HDX; and toward super-resolution chemical imaging. In the second part of my talk, I will present a new mid-infrared near-infrared two-photon imaging technique for bond-selective fluorescence imaging with single-molecule sensitivity.

Chem 248 Organic Chemistry Student Seminar: Elizabeth Croll
2023-11-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Robert Baker
2023-11-27 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Baker Flyer
Title: Observing Ultrafast Electron Motion in Catalytic Systems: New Ways to Visualize Charge and Spin Dynamics at Interfaces
Abstract: Understanding and controlling electron dynamics at interfaces is at the heart of numerous applications ranging from heterogenous catalysis to information processing. To directly observe these dynamics, we have developed ultrafast XUV reflection spectroscopy as a surface sensitive analog of time-resolved x-ray absorption. In these measurements, high harmonic generation of attosecond to femtosecond XUV pulses enables real-time observation of charge and spin dynamics with element specificity, ultrafast time resolution, and near atomic layer surface sensitivity. This talk will highlight recent studies of surface electron dynamics in materials ranging from photocatalysts to magnetic semiconductors to systems displaying chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS). In addition to ultrafast electron transfer, we also study the interfacial solvation structure in electrocatalytic systems using in-situ sum frequency generation vibrational spectroscopy. This complimentary tool enables direct measurement of solvent-mediated electric fields at catalytic interfaces, which are found to significantly influence the kinetics of electrochemical CO2 activation and reduction. Last, I will briefly describe the National eXtreme Ultrafast Science (NeXUS) facility. This $10M infrastructure project provides attosecond and femtosecond pulses of XUV light with tailored bandwidth to a suite of experimental end-stations enabling molecular and material characterization with unprecedented temporal and spatial resolution. This facility, which is supported by the National Science Foundation, will soon become an international open-access user facility serving the entire chemical, physics, and materials communities.

Inorganic Student Exit Talk: Austin Ready
2023-11-29 16:00 - 17:15 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer: Austin Ready Flyer
Title: Boron Clusters as Robust Building Blocks for the Expansion of Carbon-Based Chemistry
Abstract: Due to a delocalization of electron density, polyhedral boron clusters are often described as three-dimensional analogues of planar aromatic molecules such as benzene. Despite this electronic similarity, boron clusters can have drastically different chemical and physical properties compared to their carbon-based counterparts. In particular, our group studies the twelve vertex-containing boron cluster dodecaborate— [B12H12]2-— as a synthetic building block whose chemical reactivity and electrochemical behavior can be rationally modified by substituting the B-H vertices on the periphery of the cluster with various reactive functional groups. I will discuss the synthesis, chemical properties, and structure/bonding considerations pertaining to these derivatized B12 clusters, as well as potential applications relevant to the fields of materials science and energy storage.

Chem 218 Student Exit Seminar: Nadine Bradbury
2023-11-30 12:00 - 13:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Bristol-Myers Squibb Lecture - Prof. Christina White and Dr. William Gallagher
2023-11-30 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Seminar Information TBD

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar – Carla Koehler and Hannah Shafaat
2023-12-01 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Chem 248 Organic Chemistry Student Seminar: Zachary Walters
2023-12-04 15:00 - 16:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Jochen Stutz
2023-12-04 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Stutz Flyer

Jeffrey I. Zink Inorganic Chemistry Seminar Series: Shabnam Hematian
2023-12-06 16:00 - 17:30 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer: Prof. Shabnam Hematian Flyer
Title:Unconventional Approaches for Mediating Redox Reactions
Abstract: Reactions involving electron transfers are known as oxidation-reduction, or redox, processes, common and vital to our daily lives. Redox reactions lie at the heart of chemical, biological, environmental, and energy sciences and technologies. Here, we show how employing unconventional approaches and blueprints to a broad range of redox reactions taking place within homogeneous photocatalysts, protein scaffolds, and electrochemical systems provides an avenue for novel chemistries. Together, our studies showcase examples of redox processes proceeding under mild conditions, with some being driven by light or an external bias. Specifically, we investigate the photoactivation of metal-oxo bonds in coordination compounds, mechanism and function of a new class of copper enzymes, and novel electrolyte materials for use in organic redox flow batteries. Importantly, the diversity of molecular structures, functions, and mechanisms involved in these examples will highlight the versatility and modularity of the redox reactions and their vital role in realizing a sustainable future.

Chem 218 Student Exit Seminar: Claire Dickerson
2023-12-07 12:00 - 13:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

The 2023 M. Frederick Hawthorne Symposium
2023-12-08 13:30 - 18:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer: Hawthorne Symposium 2023 flyer
Schedule Brochure:Hawthorne Symposium Brochure
Professor M. Frederick Hawthorne (August 24, 1928 – July 8, 2021) was a true chemistry pioneer, discovering boron cluster structures that have paved the way in inorganic, organometallic, material, nanotechnology, and medicinal sciences. His award-winning work in boron chemistry and time as a distinguished Professor of Chemistry at UCLA have not only shaped and broadened the field, but also touched the lives of countless students, faculty, researchers, friends, and family. In honor of his contributions, the American Chemical Society established the “M. Frederick Hawthorne Award in Main Group Inorganic Chemistry” in 2020. The M. Frederick Hawthorne Symposium aims to celebrate and honor these recipients, who have made significant contributions to chemistry involving the elements of groups 1, 2, and 13-18, with special consideration given to demonstrated creativity and independence of thought, in keeping with the example provided by the late Professor Hawthorne. The 2022 M. Frederick Hawthorne Symposium is made possible by the Raymond and Dorothy Wilson Endowment.

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar – Jose Rodriguez and Rob Clubb
2023-12-08 15:30 - 16:30 | Young Hall 2033

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Colin Nuckolls
2024-01-08 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Prof. Colin Nuckolls Flyer
Talk Title: Putting Molecules into Materials
Abstract: This presentation will detail our efforts to create materials from contorted aromatic molecules. In particular, I will discuss how to create ladder polymers from helicenes and twistacenes building blocks. These materials have extraordinary properties as materials. The helicenes have the largest chiroptic response of any molecular species. The twistacenes excel as photovoltaics, photodetectors, batteries, and pseudocapacitors. The presentation will discuss these opportunities.

Inorganic Chemistry Student Exit Talk: Aamir Shah
2024-01-10 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Flyer: Aamir Shah Flyer
Title: Fundamental Understanding of Electrode-Electrolyte Interface in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) Kinetics
Abstract: Abstract: The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is one of the most fundamental and critical reactions in renewable energy conversion. The recent advancement in various platinum (Pt) nanocatalyst designs has led to greatly improved HER activity. Identification of the exact active sites and understanding the structure-activity relationship are critical for rational catalyst design but remain elusive due to the lack of methods robustly resolving the role of different surface sites. Moreover, it is well recognized that the HER kinetics is drastically slower in alkaline media compared to acidic media, but the descriptors of the HER kinetics are still elusive. Specifically, in the presence of alkali metal cations and hydroxyl anions, the electrode–electrolyte (platinum–water) interface in an alkaline electrolyte is far more complex than that in an acidic electrolyte. The effects of different alkali metal cations (AM+) and pH on these reactions are poorly understood due to a lack of suitable experimental methods. We are combining surface-sensitive electrical transport spectroscopy (ETS) with other electrochemistry techniques and computational studies to probe and understand the fundamental role of different AM+ and pH on the reaction kinetics of HER. Our study provides fundamental insights into how and why AM+ and pH influence the HER in alkaline media. We expect that this research will provide the molecular-level understanding that will shed new insights into electrolyte engineering as an alternative pathway to control electrochemical reaction kinetics.

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar - Karin Reinisch
2024-01-12 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Novartis Chemical Sciences Lecture: Prof. Christina Woo & Dr. Atwood Cheung
2024-01-18 13:30 - 14:30 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Glenn T. Seaborg Symposium and Medal Award Dinner
2024-01-19
On Friday, January 19, 2024, the UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry will award the Glenn T. Seaborg Medal to Professor Juli Feigon, UCLA Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Symposium Theme: Nucleic Acid Transactions and the Awesome Power of Structural Biology
Poster Session – CNSI Lobby – 12:00 to 1:00 pm
Symposium – CNSI Auditorium – 1:00 to 5:30 pm
Reception & Dinner – UCLA Covel Commons Grand Horizon Room – 6:00 to 9:00 pm
https://www.seaborg.ucla.edu/

Feigon Lab Reunion
2024-01-20 - 2024-01-21 | Boyer 159, 611 Charles E Young Dr E, Los Angeles, CA 90095, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Details and Schedule Pending

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Giulia Palermo
2024-01-22 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Prof. Giulia Palermo Flyer
Title: Dynamics and mechanisms of CRISPR-Cas9 through the lens of computational methods
Abstract: The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) genome-editing revolution established the beginning of a new era in life sciences. I will report the role of state-of-the-art computations in the CRISPR-Cas9 revolution, from the early refinement of cryo-EM data to enhanced simulations of large-scale conformational transitions. Molecular simulations reported a mechanism for RNA binding and the formation of a catalytically competent Cas9 enzyme, in agreement with subsequent structural studies. Inspired by single-molecule experiments, molecular dynamics offered a rationale for the onset of off-target effects, while graph theory unveiled the allosteric regulation. Finally, the use of a mixed quantum-classical approach established the catalytic mechanism of DNA cleavage. Overall, molecular simulations are instrumental in understanding the dynamics and mechanism of CRISPR-Cas9 and pave the way for a new field of computational studies aimed at deciphering and engineering genome editing systems.

Distinguished Lecture Series - David A. Leigh
2024-01-25 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Title: Giving Chemistry Direction
Abstract: In recent years examples of synthetic molecular machines and motors have been developed, all be they primitive by biological standards. Such molecules are best designed to work through statistical mechanisms. In a manner reminiscent of Maxwell’s Demon, random thermal motion can be rectified through ratchet mechanisms, giving chemistry direction.
It is increasingly being recognized that similar concepts can be applied to other chemical exchange processes. Ratchet mechanisms—effectively chemical engines in which catalysis of ‘fuel’ to ‘waste’ is used to drive another chemical process—can cause directional impetus in what are otherwise stochastic systems, including reversible chemical reactions. This is ushering in a new era of non-equilibrium chemistry, providing fundamental advances in functional molecule design and the first examples of molecular robotics, overturning existing dogma and offering fresh insights into biology and molecular nanotechnology.
David Leigh DLS Flyer

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar - Lalit Deshmukh
2024-01-26 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Bryan Changala
2024-01-29 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Title: “Illuminating Exotic Chemistry and Physics with Single-Quantum-State Spectroscopy”
Abstract: Molecules are amongst the most complex objects that can be controlled and studied at the individual quantum state level. In this talk, I will introduce some of the extraordinary advances made in the last decade by the application of AMO physics tools, including cavity-enhanced optical frequency comb and microwave techniques, to such quantum-state-resolved spectroscopy. These precision light-matter probes have redrawn the limits of molecular complexity that can be characterized and controlled in the laboratory, enabling scientists to address important chemical and physical problems from a fundamental, bottom-up perspective. I will showcase these applications in achieving rovibrational quantum-state spectroscopy of the C60 fullerene (the largest molecule for which this has been achieved); revealing the unexpectedly rich chemistry that occurs in extreme astrophysical environments; and exploring the unique electronic properties of metal-ligand complexes critical to applications in quantum science and metrology.
Dr. Bryan Changala Flyer
