Exploring the unique chemistry of lanthanide ions - Solution for Technology, Diagnostics and Energy

This research project will study the molecular structure surrounding lanthanide ions in solution. Lanthanide ions have many unique properties, one is that they emit light, a fact we benefit from when turning on an energy saving fluorescent light. The project will test the structure-property relationship that we develop by trying to improve rare earth mining, nuclear fuel recycling, and lanthanide based diagnostic tools. The grant funds three PhD students, two postdocs and a new spectrometer.