Hunt Research Group

The Hunt Research Group is a theoretical and computational chemistry group which carries out theoretical development and computational modeling.

Our research is focused towards understanding the chemistry and physics associated with solvents and solvation, particularly as this applies to ionic-liquids and deep eutectic solvents.

We study the making and breaking of molecules. This includes catalytic mechanisms (for group II and frustriated lewis acid-base pairs) and chemical decomposition (for green fuels, bio-fuels and ionic-liquids).

Overarching all of these areas is a specialisation in hydrogen-bonding, acid-base interactions and an expertise in the MO theory of bonding. We have developed the Effective MO Method for interrogating the electronic structure of liquids and study charge partitioning and interactions within molecules.

Interested in a PhD within the group, find information on how to apply here: Phd applications

September 2025

Latest News New group members and University open day

New Group Members

Welcome to Alyna and Laura!

Alyna (from Germany) is investigating ionic liquids as propellants for ion drives, such as those used in satellite propulsion.

Laura (from New Zealand) is investigating the effect of extremely large electric fields on ionic liquids.

University Open Day

The whole group highlighted Digital Chemistry at the university open day. We had our own station and a poster of pick and mix molecules the public could choose from. We then loaded and animated the selected molecule and displayed the vibrations for the visiting public. Surprisingly relativistic gold was the favourite!

To see more check out the links to the left