UCLA

Special Chemistry Seminar - Rigoberto Hernandez
2024-02-21 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Hernandez Seminar Flyer

3D-Networked Nanoparticles for Autonomous Computing

Abstract: Over the last decade, it has become clear that conventional VLSI is reaching key scaling limits. Moreover, the energy efficiency of human-engineered electronic devices is many orders of magnitude lower as compared to biological computational structures. Such inefficiencies, for example, severely limit our ability to move from 2D to 3D architectures in materials systems as is needed to achieve high performance and span the complexity required for applications using big data or artificial intelligence. We therefore need a new class of materials that can enable computing, but which are not bound by the rules of conventional VLSI, and we are inspired by the fact that the brain is an existence proof for such low-energy high-computing materials that do not rely on a von Neumann architecture. We have pursued the use of polymer-networked nanoparticles as a possible alternative. We will summarize our progress on characterizing these materials and report the primitive structures that we have created computationally thus far.

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar - Ben Montpetit
2024-02-16 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Houk-Jung Organic Colloquium 247: Prof. Danica Fujimori
2024-02-15 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Chem 218 Student Exit Seminar: Minh Nguyen
2024-02-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Jeffrey I. Zink Inorganic Chemistry Seminar Series - Prof. Wenliang Huang
2024-02-14 16:00 - 17:00 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States
Flyer: Prof. Wenliang Huang Flyer
Title: F-Block Metal–Arene Interaction: Dual Reactivity of Metal and Arene
Abstract: The unique metal–arene interactions motivated the advancement of chemical bond theory, and enabled a wide range of applications in synthesis and catalysis. In addition, ligand designs incorporating metal–arene interaction led to breakthroughs in stabilizing unusual oxidation states, and empowering small molecule activation and catalysis. Our group focuses on utilizing f-block metal-arene interactions in synthesis and catalysis. We have synthesized a series of inverse-sandwich f-block metal arene complexes and explored their reactivity. In addition, we have incorporated metal-arene interaction in ligand design and developed tripodal tris(amino)arene ligands capable of supporting multiple oxidation states of f-elements. Our results unveiled that the f-block metal-arene interaction not only enables redox chemistry at the metal site, but also leads to unprecedented functionalization of the arenes.

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: David Limmer
2024-02-12 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Prof. David Limmer Flyer
Talk Title: Exciton polarons in lead halide perovskites
Abstract: In this talk, I will review some of our recent work concerning the photophysics of the lead halide perovskites. In particular, I will discuss how their soft, polar lattices endow quasiparticle excitations like, polarons and excitons, with a number of anomalous properties. The electron-phonon coupling in this class of materials results in electrons and holes being repelled from each other in bulk materials at elevated temperatures, and generates a strongly size dependent dynamic Stokes shift in nanoparticles. In 2d materials, lattice effects renormalize exciton binding energies, bringing theoretical predictions that neglect them into better agreement with experimental measurements. The results presented are derived from simple Gaussian field theories and validated with quasiparticle path integral molecular dynamics simulations.

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar - Derrick Morton
2024-02-09 15:30 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Houk-Jung Organic Colloquium 247: Prof. Alshakim Nelson
2024-02-08 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Jeffrey I. Zink Inorganic Chemistry Seminar Series - Professor C. Michael McGuirk
2024-02-07 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer: Prof. C. Michael McGuirk Flyer
Title: Exploring Flexibility and Connectivity in Synthetic Porous Frameworks
Abstract: Synthetic permanently porous materials are poised to play a key role in our transition to a more sustainable society. Owing to their structural and chemical modularity, synthetic frameworks, such as metal–organic, covalent, and hydrogen-bonded networks, are uniquely amenable to realizing highly specific functionality for emergent clean energy applications. However, desired performance for many pressing challenges, such as H2 delivery and light alkene purification, continue to elude established framework classes. Thus, the pursuit of synthetic porous frameworks with emergent behaviors and of entirely new classes of frameworks is essential. In this vein, this talk will cover two distinct efforts to diversify function and form. First, recent efforts to harness reversible framework flexibility to enhance usable capacities of hydrogen storage and delivery and for direct purification of propylene will be discussed. Then, the recent discovery of a novel class of frameworks assembled and stabilized through noncovalent chalcogen bonds, called Chalcogen-Bonded Organic Frameworks (ChOFs), will be detailed.

Special Physical Chemistry Seminar: Thomas Fay
2024-02-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Physical Chemistry Seminar 228: Michael Zuerch
2024-02-05 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

Dickerson Biochemistry Seminar - Yinsheng Wang
2024-02-02 15:00 - 16:30 | Mani L. Bhaumik Centennial Collaboratory, 607 Charles E. Young Dr., East, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, United States

Jeffrey I. Zink Inorganic Chemistry Seminar Series - Prof. Victor Mougel
2024-01-31 16:00 - 17:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222
Flyer: Prof. Victor Mougel Flyer
Title: Bio-inspired Strategies for Small Molecule Electroreduction Across Multiple Scales
Abstract: Enzymatic systems have evolved complex strategies to maximize the efficiency and product selectivity in small molecule activation, including CO2 reduction. Besides unique active sites containing, by definition, earth-abundant elements, enzymes further control catalytic activity through second sphere interactions and a fine control of electron transfer chains. In this talk, we will introduce a series of bio-inspired strategies for the design of electrocatalytic systems for small molecule activations across multiple scales, encompassing the development of both heterogeneous and molecular catalysts. We will highlight a series of earth-abundant metal-based molecular and heterogeneous catalysts inspired by the active sites of enzymatic systems. Particular emphasis will be given to the exploration of bio-inspired strategies for electron transfers and storage, using synthetic Fe4S4 clusters.

Houk-Jung Organic Colloquium 247: Prof. Michelle Arkin
2024-01-31 14:00 - 15:00 | Collaboratory Yoo Seminar & Conference Hall YH4222

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

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

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

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.

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

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/

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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