The National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemistry awarded a 5-year, $599,879 CAREER grant to Professor Wenqi Liu at the University of South Florida to investigate molecular recognition in water mediated by hydrogen bonding. Under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program, this research seeks to develop synthetic water-soluble receptors with integrated hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic, and electrostatic functionalities to mimic the efficiency of biological receptors in water-based molecular recognition. The project aims to uncover design principles enabling synthetic receptors to effectively utilize hydrogen bonding, with potential applications in medical diagnostics, anti-infective agents, carbohydrate sensors, agricultural practices, and environmental remediation. The project will also expand STEM education opportunities and enhance research experiences for students, particularly those from underserved communities.
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