Uppsala University, Department of Photochemistry and Molecular Science
In 1994 Sweden started a consortium of five research groups at three universities to develop natural and artificial photosynthesis. The consortium positioned itself at the world top level within the area. In an attempt to strengthen already strong research groups, researchers was moved and the consortium reorganised, so all researchers are now active in Uppsala University. The area involves 65 researchers including 4 professors.
The activity in Uppsala focus on the part of the total photosynthesis called photosystem II. This is the part that includes light harvesting and water splitting. The work is oriented toward both natural and artificial photosynthesis. The team tries to keep these two areas tight together where the artificial photosynthesis tries to re-use the logic from natural photosynthesis but with a higher technical efficiency.
Natural photosynthesis:
- Chlorophyll as light harvesting molecule
- Thyrosine as catalyst
- Manganese complex as active surface for watersplitting
Artificial photosynthesis
- Ruthenium as light harvesting molecule
- Thyrosine as catalyst
- A manganese complex, similar to the one in natural photosynthesis, works as active surface for watersplitting
