Chilton Group

Chilton group

The Chilton group studies magnetic molecules for MRI contrast agents, quantum information and molecular data storage

About

We are the Chilton Group, split between the Department of Chemistry at The University of Manchester and the Research School of Chemistry at The Australian National University, working to understand the properties of magnetic molecules. Our interests include studying prototype MRI contrast agents, molecular spin qubits and single-molecule magnets, where we have a strong interest in fundamental molecular spin dynamics. We primarily use computational and theoretical techniques to understand the link between molecular structure and magnetic properties, as well as using SQUID magnetometry, optical, EPR and INS spectroscopies. 

Visit our group website for more information www.nfchilton.com

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Chilton group

Projects

This project uses density-functional theory to design ligands for two-coordinate dysprosium(III) complexes, aiming to enhance single-molecule magnets that store data at high temperatures. It builds on a proven blueprint to push the limits of molecular magnetic information storage.

Theme

Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and Organometallic Chemistry

Student intake

Open for Bachelor, Honours, Master students

Status

Current

This project aims to design and build an electric-field cell for nanoscale manipulation of molecular qubits using pulsed electric fields. Integrated with EPR spectroscopy, the device will enable precise quantum control, advancing scalable quantum information technologies.

Theme

Functional Materials and Interfaces, Physical and Biophysical Chemistry

Student intake

Open for Bachelor, Honours, Master students

Status

Current

This project develops high-frequency molecular qubits using heavy p-block radicals to enhance quantum coherence and sensitivity. It involves synthesis under anaerobic conditions, EPR and NMR spectroscopy, and computational analysis to advance quantum computing technologies.

Theme

Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and Organometallic Chemistry, Physical and Biophysical Chemistry

Student intake

Open for Bachelor, Honours students

Status

Current

Exploring molecular magnets, this project uses quantum chemistry to study how iodide modifications affect magnetic communication in metal-metal half-bonds, aiming to design new high-performance magnetic molecules.

Theme

Computational and Theoretical Chemistry, Functional Materials and Interfaces

Student intake

Open for Bachelor, Honours, Master students

Status

Current

Members

Leader

Professor Nick Chilton

Professor of Computational and Theoretical Chemistry

Researcher

No photo provided

Postdoctoral Fellow

Student

No photo provided

PhD Candidate