Martin Attfield

Martin Attfield is an Associate Professor (Reader) in Materials Chemistry at the University of Manchester, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry and School of Natural Sciences. He serves as Associate Director of the Centre for Nanoporous Materials. His research focuses on crystalline nanoporous materials, particularly metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), exploring their synthesis, crystal growth mechanisms, and applications in gas separation, carbon capture, and energy storage.

Education: BA in Chemistry (Oxford University), PhD in Materials Science (University of California, Santa Barbara). Postdoctoral fellowships at Oregon State University and the Royal Institution of Great Britain, followed by roles as Lecturer and Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester. He has published over 60 articles and holds three notable awards, including the Better World Award (2022).

Research interests include MOF crystal growth dynamics, membrane fabrication for separation processes, and collaborations on supercapacitor applications. Key contributions involve understanding HKUST-1 growth mechanisms and developing novel materials like aluminum butylenediphosphonate. Collaborators include Prof. Peter Budd (membranes) and Prof. Robert Dryfe (nanomaterials).

He supervises postgraduate students and welcomes applications for MSc/PhD work in materials chemistry and related fields. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly environmental sustainability and innovation.