From mobile phone displays to solar cells, quantum computers to brain sensors, functional materials underpin all modern technologies. The rich design space of synthetic chemistry results in highly versatile functional molecular materials with tunable optical, electronic and quantum properties. In molecular systems, chirality (when an object cannot be superimposed on its mirror image) can be used to control the spin of light and charges at room temperature, which presents transformative technological opportunities. Dr Jess Wade will discuss strategies to incorporate chirality into future devices, how the most exciting science happens at the intersection between disciplines, and why we need to overhaul research culture to bring the most benefit to society and the economy. 

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