In Phase III the overall objectives of Dial-a-Molecule remain unchanged:
- Transform synthesis to become a data driven discipline.
- Establish a multidisciplinary community to tackle the Grand Challenge.
- Maximise economic benefit from tackling the Challenge.
Plans for Phase III of the network differ several significant ways from the previous phases.
A more devolved structure is envisaged. We have defined three themes (T1–3) and three cross cutting Initiatives (I1-3) each of which will have a leadership group to organize (with central support) initiatives and events.
A strong emphasis is being put on Early Career Researchers (loosely defined as being in the first 10 years of their career), both as members of the various steering groups, and with the organization of specific ECR events.
The network will take an active role in facilitating the development of collaborative research proposals. It will also promote industrial engagement, including through initiatives such as the Synthesis College and SME networks.
The themes below are areas where we believe that we can make a significant impact over the next three years. We are open to suggestions of other theme or sub-theme areas that would benefit from the coordinated approach that Dial-a-Molecule can offer. The three cross cutting initiatives are aimed at establishing world leading facilities in the U.K.
Aim: To change synthesis into a data lead discipline embracing new technologies to capture and use better quality data for effective synthetic route and process design.
T2: Enabling Technologies for Synthesis.
Aim: to promote the development and use of automated reaction and analysis systems in synthesis.
Aim: to promote the development of synthesis in a way aligned to the Dial-a-Molecule Grand Challenge and maximize its industrial impact.
I1 Dial-a-Molecule Grand Challenge Institute.
Aim: To establish physical and virtual centres directed at the aims of Dial-a-Molecule.
I2. National Catalyst/ligand Bank and Testing Facility.
Aim: The establishment of a national catalyst/ligand bank and testing facility for industry and academia.
I3. Building a Synthesis Machine.
Aim: To establish a group with the necessary skills, and to seek funding, to build a demonstration ‘synthesis machine’.