Federal Project Grant Summary

The University of Florida Division of Sponsored Research received a $580,000 Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Chemistry under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049), effective August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2029. This research initiative will develop novel organic molecular building blocks based on heterocomplementary paracyclophanes designed to enable precise self-assembly into larger supramolecular structures that replicate the sequential organization and functional properties of biological polymers such as DNA and peptides. The project introduces deck-differentiated paracyclophanes with prescribed functional roles—functioning as initiators, chain growers, chain-transfer agents, and end-cappers—to establish living supramolecular polymerization regimes that afford unprecedented control over aggregate dynamics, size, shape, polarity, and functionality for advanced manufacturing applications.

In addition to research deliverables, the grant supports comprehensive educational and training outcomes. The project will expose graduate and undergraduate students to synthetic and physical organic chemistry, spectroscopy, computation, and polymer characterization techniques. Educational components include community outreach activities conducted in partnership with the UF American Chemical Society Poly/Polymer Materials Science and Engineering Student Chapter and the UF Chemistry Club, as well as annual internship placements for high school students with focus on critical extracurricular skills including communications and marketing within the academic research mission.