About the O’Reilly Group

The O’Reilly Group develops path-finding biomimetic materials science. Group members focus on novel approaches to polymer synthesis and design through manipulation of the constituents and architecture of extended molecular chains. Evolution over hundreds of thousands of years has resulted in highly complex polymers such as the carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids that are the constituent parts of every living thing. Inspired by the science of nature, O’Reilly Group researchers work across disciplines to engineer nanoparticles and create new approaches to nanotechnologies. Our work results in self-assembling ‘living machines’, responsive fluorescent probes, and molecules capable of precisely controlled release or cascade reactions. This fundamental research enables useful applications in personalised medicine, environmental safety and drug delivery. We are fortunate to have been supported by industry, with collaborators including BP plc, Unilever and Infineum UK Ltd; philanthropic partners such as Leverhulme Trust; and funding bodies including the European Commission and EPSRC. Our extensive international academic partnerships have included the universities of Warwick, Cambridge, Oxford, Southampton, Fudan, Tongji, Northwestern and Victoria, to name just a few. The O’Reilly Group’s labs are well-equipped for synthesis and characterisation alongside access to the School’s extensive facilities.

The internationality of the O’Reilly Group is important – there is a diversity of ideas and contributions that creates great dynamism, and we usually host visiting students and academic researchers throughout the year. We have a strong belief in equity of opportunity; career development is prioritised, with the opportunity to contribute to papers, take part in outreach, and mentor other Group members.  We aim to be as dedicated to developing our working relationships as we are to our science.