Mark MacLachlan

Mark MacLachlan is a distinguished Professor and currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He leads a vibrant research group in the Department of Chemistry focused on supramolecular materials, with expertise spanning organic, inorganic, and polymer chemistry. His work bridges fundamental molecular design with practical applications in energy, electronics, and sustainable materials.

Dr. MacLachlan's research interests center on supramolecular chemistry and materials science, with emphasis on nanomaterials, porous structures, and cellulose-based systems. His group develops novel organic and inorganic molecules and materials with applications in electronics, photonics, catalysis, and environmental technologies. Key research areas include mesoporous materials for optics and catalysis, supramolecular chemistry with macrocycles, structurally interesting molecules, and self-assembled systems including gels. His work often addresses environmental challenges and alternative energy applications such as solar energy conversion and hydrogen fuel cells.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on cellulose nanocrystals and their applications in photonic materials, energy storage, and responsive systems. His work integrates supramolecular chemistry with platinum-based systems for molecular machines and recognition. The research demonstrates interdisciplinary approaches combining chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology to create functional materials with precisely controlled properties.

• Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK) (2016)
• Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Supramolecular Materials (2015-2029)
• Elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (FRSC) (2014)
• Rutherford Memorial Medal (Royal Society of Canada) (2013)
• Killam Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Mentorship (UBC) (2013)
• NSERC Steacie Memorial Fellowship (2012-14)

Dr. MacLachlan has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering a collaborative research environment that spans multiple disciplines. His group employs a wide range of characterization techniques including electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. The MacLachlan research group maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide, including the WPI Nano Life Science Institute at Kanazawa University where he serves as a Visiting Professor.

The MacLachlan group operates state-of-the-art facilities for synthesizing and characterizing novel materials, with particular expertise in chiral nematic structures, mesoporous materials, and supramolecular assemblies. Their work on cellulose nanocrystals has led to innovative applications in photonic materials, energy storage devices, and responsive systems.