Euan Kay

Dr. Euan Kay is a Senior Lecturer in Chemistry at the University of St Andrews' School of Chemistry (EaSTCHEM). He leads the NanoSupra research group in collaboration with Prof. Doug Philp and serves as Undergraduate Admissions Officer. Kay joined St Andrews in 2011 as a Royal Society of Edinburgh/Scottish Government Research Fellow, becoming Lecturer in 2015. His academic background includes an MChem (2002) and PhD (2006) from the University of Edinburgh, supervised by Prof. David Leigh FRS, followed by postdoctoral work at MIT with Prof. Moungi Bawendi.

Education
MChem, University of Edinburgh (2002)
PhD in Chemistry, University of Edinburgh (2006)

Research Focus
Kay's research spans supramolecular chemistry and nanochemistry, focusing on dynamic molecular systems that bridge multiple length scales. His group develops strategies to control nanoscale structure and function through:

• Dynamic covalent and non-covalent molecular recognition
• Nanoparticle assembly and interfacial engineering
• Reaction network thermodynamics and kinetics
• Molecular machine-nanomaterial integration
• Hybrid material creation for functional devices

This work aims to reveal fundamental principles of nanoscale organization and enable new technologies.

Publication Trends
Kay's recent articles demonstrate strong focus on nanoparticle dynamics and functionalization, with 60% centered on covalent exchange strategies for nanoparticle engineering. Another 25% explore reaction networks and phase behaviors, while 15% develop sensing applications. The work consistently bridges supramolecular principles with nanomaterial design.

Honors & Awards

• 1851 Research Fellowship (2008)
• IUPAC Prize for Young Chemists (2007)
• Royal Society of Edinburgh Fellowship (2011)
• Carnegie Scholarship (2002)
• Salters' Graduate Prize (2002)

Academic Leadership
Kay coordinates chemistry modules including CH4614 (Heterocyclic/Pericyclic Chemistry) and supervises PhD candidates (Ellie Reid, Virginie Viseur, Laura Gravener). He secured significant funding as PI for projects including:

• Unlocking ChEmical ReacTivity (Royal Society)
• Mechanized Nanomaterials (Scottish Funding Council)
• Hierarchical Reaction Networks (Leverhulme Trust)

He also serves on the RSC Chemical Nanoscience Committee.

Laboratory & Team
The Kay Group develops experimental platforms for nanoscale characterization and dynamic systems. Their facilities enable solution-to-solid state analysis of nanoparticle systems and support collaborations across materials science, biochemistry, and physics.