Supramolecular chemistry is 'chemistry beyond the molecule'. It is an interdisciplinary field that covers the physical, chemical and biological properties of complex chemical species held together mainly by non-covalent interactions. This course provides an introduction to the field, and discusses the intermolecular forces that dictate the formation of supermolecules and supramolecular assemblies and their properties. Main topics include basics of molecular recognition, host-guest chemistry, self-assembly, supramolecular materials and function, as well as supramolecular medicine.

CILO-1: Recognize the concepts in the field of non-covalent interactions. CILO-2: Aware of techniques for the analysis of host-guest systems. CILO-3: Assess the thermodynamic driving force for the formation of self-assembled systems. CILO-4: Interpret the most important classes of receptors for anions, cations, and neutral molecules. CILO-5: Describe the design principles for the construction of supramolecular structures/materials. CILO-6: Apply the differentiate rotaxanes, pseudorotaxanes, catenanes and molecular knots and machines, and recall synthetic routes to make these compounds. CILO-7: Describe the basic concepts molecular encapsulations and the complications in molecular sensing and medicine. CILO-8: Apply the supramolecular systems and materials for biomedical applications.