Dr Dean Thomas FHEA

The most fundamental abstraction underlying all modern computers is the Turing Machine. Conversely, any modern computer can simulate a Turing Machine, an equivalence which is called ‘Turing completeness’. If a system can demonstrate such fundamental completeness, it is theoretically possible to achieve any task that can be algorithmically described by executing a series of discrete unit operations. Herein we extend this concept to robotic platforms capable of conducting physical operations that can be used to synthesise complex molecules through unit chemical reactions using a chemically-aware programming language, XDL.

The assembly of molecular nanomachines using atomically precise manipulations promises to enable molecular nanotechnology with unprecedented architectural features and exquisite functional properties. However, this vision is critically limited by the ability to autonomously manufacture nanomachines, with current synthetic efforts being heavily labour intensive. What is needed is a system that can program the assembly of matter under digital control unifying molecular nanotechnology and macroscale chemical processes in both time and space.

The ChemPU platform streamlines chemistry by automating kinetic measurements, bridging synthesis and analysis. It’s versatile, adaptable, and facilitates precise data encoding of reactions via the Chemical Description Language (XDL). This innovation has the potential to enhance efficiency and create a valuable database of kinetic data for broader applications.

We report the synthesis and operation of a molecular energy ratchet that transports a crown ether from solution onto a thread, along the axle, over a fluorophore, and off the other end of the thread back into bulk solution, all in response to a single pulse of a chemical fuel (CCl3CO2H). The system provides a potential alternative signaling approach for artificial molecular machines that read symbols from sequence-encoded molecular tapes.

Polymer beads have been used as the core of magnetic particles for around twenty years. Here we report studies to attach polymetallic complexes to polymer beads for the first time, producing beads of around 115 microns diameter that are attached to 10¹⁴ hybrid inorganic-organic [2]rotaxanes.

The sorption of species from a solution into and onto solids underpins the sequestering of waste and pollutants, precious metal recovery, heterogeneous catalysis, analysis and separation science, and other technologies. Non-equilibrium sorption by immobilized artificial molecular machines enables the transduction of energy from chemical fuels for the use, storage and release of energy and information.

We report on catalysis by a fuel-induced transient state of a synthetic molecular machine. Dissipative catalysis by synthetic molecular machines has implications for the future design of networks that feature communication and signaling between the components

A thesis submitted to The University of Manchester for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the Faculty of Science and Engineering

The article explores how AI is transforming scientific research, raising the question of whether machine-generated discoveries can be described as "beautiful" in the same way as human work. As AI becomes increasingly central to fields like chemistry, with advancements in retrosynthesis, reaction planning, and Nobel Prize-winning applications, it blurs the line between human and machine creativity. The evolution of AI systems challenges us to rethink the appreciation in science as more discoveries are driven by autonomous processes.

The article explores the pitfalls of the "teach, test, forget" cycle in STEM education, where short-term memorization often outweighs long-term understanding. It calls for a shift towards more interactive, experiential learning and smaller class sizes to promote critical thinking and knowledge retention

The article shares the story behind the 2022 paper on artificial molecular pumps, exploring the development process and challenges faced. These pumps mimic biological motors, using chemical fuel to drive cargo between phases, offering potential applications in environmental and material sciences. The article highlights the design evolution and the significance of these molecular machines in future technologies.

The article reflects on the challenges faced by researchers during the COVID-19 lockdowns, where limited lab time disrupted crucial work. It stresses the importance of accepting that lost time cannot be fully recovered and cautions against overworking in an attempt to make up for it. Instead, advocating for a healthier work-life balance, encouraging researchers to reset expectations and focus on sustainable progress.