Skip to main content

Adan Yusuf

Location
Level 1, Energy Building
Primary Supervisor
Professor Paul Beales, Chemistry
Qualifications
MSci Chemistry, Queen Mary

Biography

During Adan’s final year research project, he specialised in the design and synthesis of novel molecularly imprinted polymers for the detection of methylxanthines in coffee as a part of the IPCOS (Imprinted polymers as Coffee Sensors) project under the supervision of Professor Resmini. The aim of this research was to use molecular imprinting to design man-made polymeric antibody mimics capable of selective molecular recognition of the target compounds.
During this research Adan gained valuable skills in cross-linked polymer synthesis and characterisation, Isothermal Titration Calorimetry, dynamic NMR analysis and chromatography.

PhD: Nature-inspired polymeric nanocapsules with tuneable and responsive functional properties

The exceptional levels of control afforded by the latest synthetic techniques have resulted in the opportunity to develop the next generation of advanced functional materials by taking inspiration from nature. This bio inspiration has led to the development of nanomaterials which mimic subcellular structures.
This project aims to utilise advanced synthetic polymer chemistry and polymer self-assembly to develop the next generation of stimulus responsive nanocapsules. Furthermore, advanced analytical techniques will be utilised to characterise formation and properties. Nanocapsules will be designed to respond to pH and temperature in addition to non-invasive stimuli such as light. Functionalising with biomolecules, catalysts or enzymes will be evaluated providing a potential route to targeted delivery, tuneable permeability, controlled/triggered release of payloads (e.g. drugs) or for controlled catalysis. These systems have potential applications in the next generation of formulated products. This PhD will provide experience in small molecule synthesis, polymer synthesis, self-assembly and functional characterisation.

Outreach, training and other activities:

  • Student Helper at IChemE ChemEng Day 2018 (hosted by University of Leeds)

Masters research project in year 1 of CDT:

  • ‘Influence of Zetapotential, ionic concentration and dispersant addition on surface area measurements via rapid NMR’ with Dr Tim Hunter, Chemical & Process Engineering