About C-SMART
The Centre for Synthesis, Materials, Analytics, and Research in Translational Science (C-SMART) is a vibrant research hub at the University of 糖心Vlog. We drive innovation in molecular science to address global challenges related to health, sustainability, and technology. By bringing together leading expertise in molecular synthesis, advanced materials, analytical science, translational chemistry, and clean energy, we deliver high-impact solutions across academia, industry, and society.
Our work ranges from laboratory-scale discovery to real-world application. We create smart molecules and functional materials, develop state-of-the-art analytical platforms, and translate fundamental science into solutions, such as breakthrough diagnostics, greener chemical processes, and new materials for energy storage.
C-SMART is built around five core pillars:
- Synthesis: Green, scalable and programmable chemistry
- Materials: High-performance, sustainable materials for real-world use
- Analytics: Integrated, high-resolution characterisation at every scale.
- Translational science: From molecules to medicines, coatings and devices.
- Energy: Molecular approaches to storage, conversion and sustainability.
Our aims are:
- Establish C-SMART as a recognised leader in translational molecular science, renowned for providing sustainable and scalable solutions in the fields of healthcare, materials and clean energy.
- Forge strategic partnerships with other UoG centres, industry, funding agencies and global research institutions to co-create transformative technologies and accelerate their deployment.
- Empower early-career researchers by providing structured mentorship, funding opportunities and leadership roles within high-performing research teams.
- Drive the next REF submission through research that delivers high-impact publications, clear evidence of translation and compelling case studies spanning synthesis, analytics and materials.
- Foster an ambitious, inclusive research culture in which collaboration, innovation and societal impact lie at the heart of everything we do.
At C-SMART, we’re not just exploring molecules — we’re shaping the technologies of tomorrow.
Our impact on the world
At C-SMART, we ensure that molecular and materials science delivers real, lasting benefits for people and the planet. We tackle global challenges in healthcare, sustainability and technology through green chemistry, functional materials, advanced analytics and translational innovation.
Our focus is on clean, scalable and programmable approaches that reduce waste, eliminate toxic reagents and enable safer and smarter manufacturing. Whether we are developing bioactive molecules, degradable polymers, or energy materials, our work is always impact-driven.
C-SMART contributes directly to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 2 – Zero Hunger
Through bio-based agrochemicals, sustainable food packaging, and nutrition-focused analytical tools. - SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
Via diagnostics, drug discovery, biomaterials, and smart medical coatings that improve healthcare access and quality. - SDG 4 – Quality Education
By mentoring early-career researchers, training PhD students, and embedding research-led teaching in advanced science and sustainability. - SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
Through novel materials for water purification, solvent-free chemical processes, and pollutant monitoring technologies. - SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
With research on bioenergy, hydrogen generation, electrochemical energy capture, and storage materials. - SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
By delivering scalable, sustainable, and digital-ready chemistry and materials technologies for next-generation manufacturing. - SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
Through degradable materials, circular chemistry models, and waste-minimising synthetic methods. - SDG 13 – Climate Action
By electrifying synthesis, replacing fossil-based reagents, and supporting low-carbon chemical manufacturing at scale. - SDG 14 – Life Below Water
Through low-toxicity chemical development and strategies to reduce industrial and solvent-based water pollution. - SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Through close collaboration with global industry partners, academic institutions, and funding agencies to scale innovation and impact.
Who we are
C-SMART combines deep scientific expertise with a translational mindset—ensuring our discoveries become solutions. We’re not just advancing science; we’re building a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future.
Collaboration and Partnerships
C-SMART thrives on deep collaboration with external academic institutions, public organisations, and private industry. Our industrial partnerships span sectors from pharmaceuticals and materials to energy and diagnostics, with collaborators including:
Pharmaceutical, Agrochemical and Biotech:
AstraZeneca, GSK, Pfizer, Bayer, Merck, Syngenta, Johnson & Johnson, Vitarka Therapeutics, Curadev, Mylan, GALVmed
Chemicals, energy, and materials:
Merck, Shell, Infineum, Chevron, AkzoNobel, Unilever, Santas
Healthcare and diagnostics:
Medway NHS Trust (joint molecular diagnostics programme), leading SMEs in formulation and medical device integration
These partnerships are built around co-development of green synthesis methods, new molecular platforms, industrial formulations, medical coatings, and sustainable manufacturing pathways. Our track record includes successful patents, licensing, industrial PhD supervision, and contract research projects.
Funding and Recognition
C-SMART’s research is supported by a strong and growing portfolio of national and international funding. This includes:
- European Commission – Horizon EU
- UKRI and Research Councils UK (EPSRC, BBSRC)
- The Royal Society and the Leverhulme Trust
- Industrial partnerships and consultancy revenue streams
We also generate significant income through research-led consultancy, especially in spectroscopy, synthesis, and pharmaceutical analytics.
Our research
Transformative Chemistry for a Sustainable Future
At C-SMART, we believe that chemistry and materials science are key to addressing the most pressing issues of our time, including climate action, clean energy, safer manufacturing, and sustainable resource use.
In line with the UK Government’s 2023 Science and Technology Framework, we are advancing the kind of transformative, application-ready science that drives innovation, strengthens industrial resilience and establishes global leadership.
We have state-of-the-art laboratories, flow chemistry systems, electrochemical platforms and advanced characterisation facilities, including NMR, HRMS, HPLC, DRX and ICP, to support our research. C-SMART operates across five core, interconnected research themes:
Green and Disruptive Molecular Synthesis
We develop new methodologies for scalable, selective and sustainable chemical transformations. We use electrosynthesis, photoredox catalysis, mechanochemistry and flow chemistry to enable cleaner molecular construction using electricity, light and atom-economical strategies. These approaches replace hazardous reagents and solvents while maintaining precision and efficiency, establishing C-SMART as a pioneer in low-impact molecular manufacturing.
Advanced and Functional Materials
Our materials research focuses on design from the molecular level upwards. We create responsive polymers, as well as bio-based and biodegradable materials. We also develop catalytic surfaces and nanostructured systems with applications in energy, sensing, packaging and environmental remediation. Whether for selective separations or smart coatings, our goal is to develop the next generation of materials for a more sustainable future.
Integrated Analytical Science
C-SMART is home to advanced analytical capabilities that support both discovery and industrial translation. Our areas of expertise include high-resolution mass spectrometry, multinuclear NMR, surface and imaging analysis, advanced separations, and structural elucidation. We also use chemometrics and modelling to gain deeper insights into complex systems.
Our UKAS-accredited Analytical Services Laboratory (ASL) (Testing Laboratory No. 2180) supports these capabilities by offering customised analysis, method development and consultancy services to industrial partners in the pharmaceutical, materials, energy and environmental sectors. Our dual academic–commercial model ensures that our analytical platforms deliver research excellence and real-world impact.
Translational Chemistry and Industrial Application
We actively bridge the gap between fundamental chemistry and real-world implementation. Our projects include the development of functional coatings, catalysis platforms, packaging materials, process innovations and eco-friendly formulations. We work closely with partners from various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, consumer goods and energy, to jointly develop technologies that can be deployed to meet industrial performance and sustainability targets.
Molecular Approaches to Energy and Sustainability
C-SMART is contributing to the clean energy transition by developing electrochemical technologies, hydrogen generation processes, energy storage materials and carbon-neutral reaction pathways. We are exploring new catalytic cycles and redox systems that can store or convert energy more efficiently. We are also investigating recyclable and low-carbon alternatives to conventional chemical processes.
Together, these themes define a rigorous, interdisciplinary and impact-oriented research portfolio. At C-SMART, we don't just produce knowledge — we enable the science that underpins the transition to a cleaner, smarter and more resilient future.
Publications/Output
View all publications.
Teaching and training
C-SMART provides research-led postgraduate training that strongly emphasises real-world impact. Our academics supervise MSc by Research students in chemistry and contribute to taught postgraduate programmes in pharmacological science, biotechnology, and formulation science. We also support chemistry-focused apprenticeships, equipping learners with advanced technical skills that align with industry needs. Looking ahead, our goal is to build the critical mass necessary to establish C-SMART as a doctoral training hub for interdisciplinary, industry-engaged research.
News and events
C-SMART is a newly established research centre at the University of 糖心Vlog. We are developing an exciting programme of activities to encourage collaboration, innovation and increased visibility. Our members contribute to the Faculty of Engineering and Science’s external speaker series, and we regularly host internal research symposia, strategy days and themed events to stimulate cross-disciplinary discussion and partnerships. As the centre grows, we will share news, event highlights and upcoming opportunities here — stay tuned!
