Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is the premier non-destructive analytical method for studying all forms of matter, and is vital to many areas of science and engineering. The method relies on the interaction between a nuclear spin and a magnetic field, and has been called "an evergreen" of science because spectacular new developments and applications continue to blossom at a substantial rate. The long-term goal of my research program is to produce novel and impactful chemical insight into the structure, dynamics, and properties of chemical compounds and materials by furthering our understanding of the connection between these properties and various solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR) observables. This Discovery Grant proposal describes our 5-year plans for the development of SSNMR spectroscopic methods with applications in crystal engineering, NMR crystallography, and real-time studies of mechanochemical transformations. The research program is focussed on impact and innovation coupled with world-class training of highly-qualified personnel (HQP) Non-covalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding and van der Waals' interactions are well-established to play critical roles in the structure and function of chemical compounds, materials, and biomolecules. We will use SSNMR and nuclear quadrupole resonance (NQR) spectroscopy to characterize non-covalent chalcogen, pnictogen, and tetrel bonds. A second strand of the program will focus on establishing and understanding novel dynamic processes in solids which are modulated by halogen, chalcogen, pnictogen, and tetrel bonds. We will use crystal engineering principles to design and develop new molecular machines which take advantage of these interactions. A final high-risk high-reward theme of our program will centre on the development and application of new spectroscopic tools to study solid-state reactions and dynamical processes in real time. My approach to training HQP is to be a catalyst for their professional development, ultimately converging on a `mentoring-by-challenging' philosophy, encouraging each individual to be a strong independent thinker and doer. My training plan fills a timely gap in the Canadian research landscape and positions HQP for jobs in academia, private industry, and government. An inclusive environment is fostered by empowering all HQP to contribute to decision making and by actively promoting mutual respect among team members through open dialogue, listening, and leading by example. Our research activities lead to publications in a range of leading journals; conference and seminar presentations to diverse audiences comprising academia, industry, government, and the general public; new chemical compounds; free software products; and NMR pulse sequences. These outputs lead to impacts for stakeholders and HQP, which ultimately lead to top job placements, positive social impact, and an expanded tax base to support Canadians.