# Collaborative Research: Theory and Synthesis of Strained Cyclic Photoswitches Towards Controlling Isomerization and Cycloadditions

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Connecticut (CT) · $271,019

## Abstract

With the support of the Chemical Mechanism, Function, and Properties Program of the Division of Chemistry, Professor Michael Kienzler of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Connecticut and Professor Steven Lopez of the Department of Chemistry at Northeastern University are collaborating across synthetic and theoretical chemistry to study the reactivity of molecular photoswitches. Molecular photoswitches use light to trigger controllable changes in molecular function. In this project, the PIs are using ring strain as a second means of controlling and enhancing the photoswitching functions. Using ring-strain to increase molecule reactivity is well-established in chemistry. This proposal combines these two ideas to develop cyclized photoswitches to generate ring-strain reversibly and study the activation of functional groups in the rings for wavelength-dependent spatiotemporal control of target reactions. Results from this research project will significantly impact organic chemistry, energy storage, biophysics, and chemical biology. Furthermore, this interdisciplinary project includes a substantial educational framework for supporting STEM students from high school through graduate level chemistry.

The long-term goal of this collaboration is to understand the photophysical effects of ring-strain on photoswitches and to demonstrate that the reversible generation of ring-strain can accelerate otherwise unfavorable photochemical reactions. Molecular photoswitches re

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2453552
- **Awardee organization:** University of Connecticut (CT)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** WNTPS995QBM7
- **PI:** Michael A Kienzler
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $271,019
- **Funds obligated:** $271,019
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2453552

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2453552, Collaborative Research: Theory and Synthesis of Strained Cyclic Photoswitches Towards Controlling Isomerization and Cycloadditions. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2453552. Licensed CC0.

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