Soeren Bock: Chemistry

I have previously undertaken my undergraduate studies at Chemnitz University of Technology in Germany where I achieved the degree of Diplom-Chemiker. During this time, I voluntarily assisted to work in the laboratory under the leadership of Prof. K. Barnert for Organic Chemistry (2009-2011) and following this, under the leadership of Prof. H. Lang for Inorganic Chemistry (2011). During this period, I developed a strong interest in organometallic chemistry which hence became the subject foundation for my final undergraduate research thesis; which more specifically concerns poly(cyanoacetylide) complexes. The final year thesis was conducted as a research internship within Prof. P. Low’s laboratory group at Durham University (11/2011-06/2012), supervised by Prof. H. Lang (Chemnitz) in addition with Prof. P. Low (Durham).

As the fortunate recipient of the Van Mildert College Trust Postgraduate Research Scholarship I am now able to pursue my research interests in organometallic chemistry under the continuing supervision of Prof. P. Low. The central focus of my current research is developing suitable catalytic systems for sunlight induced water splitting reactions to ultimately form hydrogen. Advantageously utilising the chemical knowledge and skills gathered during my undergraduate studies, I am more specifically developing and investigating bimetallic complexes for their potential use as photoactive catalysts.