معرفی
Peter Henderson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Natural and Computing Sciences at the University of Aberdeen. His research and teaching focus on liquid crystal chemistry, particularly the synthesis and characterization of dimers, oligomers, and novel mesophases. He is actively involved in undergraduate and postgraduate chemistry programs, serving as Director of Undergraduate Pathways, overseeing recruitment and academic delivery.
His research interests center on liquid crystals, with emphasis on structure-property relationships, molecular architecture design, and functional materials for display applications. He investigates twist-bend nematic phases, ferro- and antiferroelectric materials, and biaxial nematics, employing synthetic organic chemistry and advanced characterization techniques.
The recent publications reveal a consistent focus on liquid crystal dimers and oligomers, exploring how molecular modifications—such as terminal groups, linker types, and chiral centers—influence mesomorphic behavior. Key themes include hydrogen bonding, chirality induction, and phase transitions in soft matter systems. His work bridges organic synthesis and materials science, contributing to the fundamental understanding of liquid crystalline order.
Scientific Affiliations and Memberships:
- ORCID: 0000-0001-9334-538X
- SCOPUS Author ID: 7202609020
- Treasurer, Royal Society of Chemistry Aberdeen and North East Scotland Local Section
Teaching and Academic Leadership:
Dr. Henderson teaches across multiple levels, from Summer School to postgraduate masters. He is responsible for courses such as Chemical Kinetics and Thermodynamics, Molecular Structure and Reactivity, and Honours Chemistry Research Projects. As Director of Undergraduate Pathways, he oversees curriculum development, student recruitment, and assessment strategies for BSc and MChem Chemistry programs.
Research Collaborations and Grants:
His long-standing collaboration with Professor Corrie T. Imrie and other international researchers (e.g., from Poland and the Netherlands) suggests active grant-funded research. While specific grants are not listed, his publication record in high-impact journals indicates sustained funding support. His work has contributed to the development of new liquid crystal materials with potential applications in advanced displays and electro-optic devices.
Laboratory and Research Group:
Dr. Henderson's research is conducted within the liquid crystal chemistry group at the University of Aberdeen, focusing on the synthesis and characterization of novel mesogenic compounds. The lab employs techniques in organic synthesis, thermal analysis (DSC), polarized optical microscopy, and X-ray diffraction to study phase behavior and molecular organization.
