Research in the group explores problems in coordination chemistry and organic synthesis using the relatively new field of supramolecular chemistry as a tool. Research projects include developing specific metal chelators for a variety of toxic and environmentally hazardous metals; using organic reactions to mediate inorganic cluster formation; designing efficient syntheses of nanoscale organic cage structures through supramolecular intermediates; and using multiple weak interactions within small molecule receptors to target environmentally and biologically relevant substrates. The research in the group spans a diverse range of disciplines: organic synthesis of ligands and receptors; inorganic chemistry of supramolecular coordination complexes and inorganic clusters; computer modeling and ligand design; analytical chemistry of metal extractants; solution thermodynamics of host-guest and metal-ligand complexes; and materials science of supramolecular assemblies. The characterization of these nanoscale molecules requires investigation by X-ray crystallography, calorimetry, multidimensional NMR techniques and other spectroscopic methods.