Supramolecular Chemistry Course | IIT Kanpur | Prof. P.K. Bharadwaj
Course Details
| Exam Registration | 101 |
|---|---|
| Course Status | Ongoing |
| Course Type | Elective |
| Language | English |
| Duration | 8 weeks |
| Categories | Chemistry |
| Credit Points | 2 |
| Level | Postgraduate |
| Start Date | 16 Feb 2026 |
| End Date | 10 Apr 2026 |
| Enrollment Ends | 16 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Registration Ends | 27 Feb 2026 |
| Exam Date | 19 Apr 2026 IST |
| NCrF Level | 4.5 — 8.0 |
Unlocking the World of Molecular Interactions: An In-Depth Guide to Supramolecular Chemistry-I
Welcome to an exploration of one of chemistry's most fascinating frontiers. Supramolecular Chemistry, often described as "chemistry beyond the molecule," focuses on the intricate and functional entities formed by the association of two or more chemical species through non-covalent interactions. This 8-week postgraduate course, designed and delivered by the esteemed Prof. Parimal Kanti Bharadwaj of IIT Kanpur, offers a deep dive into this dynamic field, bridging fundamental science with cutting-edge applications.
Meet Your Instructor: A Legacy of Excellence
The course is led by Prof. Parimal Kanti Bharadwaj, a distinguished figure in chemical sciences. With an M.Sc. and Ph.D. from IIT Kharagpur, followed by a UNESCO Fellowship at the Tokyo Institute of Technology and extensive research experience in the US, Prof. Bharadwaj brings a wealth of knowledge and international perspective. He served as a Professor at IIT Kanpur for over three decades, mentoring 47 Ph.D. and over 100 M.Sc. students, and has authored more than 300 research papers. His expertise ensures that the course content is both profound and pedagogically exceptional.
Course Overview: What is Supramolecular Chemistry?
ABOUT THE COURSE: At its core, supramolecular chemistry is the study of molecular recognition—the specific interaction between molecules—and its consequences. This principle is fundamental to life itself, governing processes like enzyme-substrate binding and DNA replication. Beyond biology, this field is revolutionizing materials science, leading to advancements in:
- Biological Sensors & Drug Design: Creating molecules that can selectively bind to pathogens or diseased cells.
- Nanotechnology: Synthesizing nanostructures, thin films, and molecular machines.
- Energy & Environment: Developing materials for hydrogen and carbon dioxide storage.
- Security: Designing sensors for detecting explosives and hazardous materials.
Who Should Enroll?
- INTENDED AUDIENCE: M.Sc. and Ph.D. students in Chemistry and related disciplines from IITs, universities, and research institutes. Professionals in the drug industry will find the content highly relevant to R&D.
- PREREQUISITES: A basic understanding of chemical concepts is required.
- INDUSTRY SUPPORT: Recognized as highly beneficial for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
Detailed 8-Week Course Curriculum
Here is a week-by-week breakdown of the comprehensive syllabus designed to build your knowledge from the ground up.
| Week | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction, evolution of supramolecular chemistry, intermolecular interactions, molecular recognition, cooperativity. |
| Week 2 | Thermodynamics of recognition, supramolecular synthons, macrocycle synthesis, template effects, crown ethers. |
| Week 3 | Macrocyclic effects, stability, Calixarenes ("molecular baskets"), their flexibility and binding properties. |
| Week 4 | Cucurbiturils (host molecules), their applications in reactions, Cyclodextrins as supramolecular vessels. |
| Week 5 | Macrobicyclic cryptands: synthesis, rigidity, cryptate effects, and their use in catalysis. |
| Week 6 | Cyclophanes & cryptophanes, Spherands for metal binding, introduction to Dendrimers. |
| Week 7 | Dendrimer synthesis, their binding properties, mimicking enzymes, interlocked structures (rotaxanes, shuttles). |
| Week 8 | Complex architectures: Metal helicates, catenanes, molecular knots, and their synthesis via templating. |
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will:
- Grasp the fundamental principles of molecular recognition and non-covalent interactions.
- Understand the design, synthesis, and properties of key supramolecular hosts like crown ethers, calixarenes, and cryptands.
- Appreciate the role of supramolecular chemistry in drug design, sensing, and catalysis.
- Explore advanced topics like dendrimers and mechanically interlocked molecules (e.g., rotaxanes).
- Be equipped to follow contemporary research and apply concepts in both academic and industrial settings.
Recommended Textbook
The primary reference for this course is the authoritative text: "Supramolecular Chemistry" by J.W. Steed and J. L. Atwood (Wiley). Supplementary review articles will be provided to enhance understanding of specific topics.
Why Take This Course?
Supramolecular Chemistry sits at the intersection of chemistry, biology, and materials science. This course offers a unique opportunity to learn from a pioneer in the field, structured in a way that makes complex topics accessible. Whether you aim to advance your academic research or innovate in industrial applications, the principles taught here are indispensable for the next generation of scientists and engineers tackling global challenges in health, energy, and technology.
Duration: 8 Weeks | Level: Postgraduate | Category: Chemistry
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