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Dinuclear silver(I) complexes have recently gained attention for potential applications in visible light photochemistry. Our group has demonstrated that strong visible light absorption can occur in silver(I) dimers featuring redox-active naphthyridine diimine (NDI) ligands, resulting from a combination of close silver–silver interactions and low-lying ligand π* orbitals. A shortcoming of this previous work is that the sliver-NDI complexes displayed fluxional behavior due to rapid ligand exchange in solution; the ability to produce silver(I) dimers with targeted properties that maintain well-defined structures in solution remains an unmet challenge. Here, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a series of silver(I) dimers with naphthyridine-derived ligands, in which the ligand scaffold is systematically varied in order to determine structure/property relationships. We find that truncation of the NDI framework into an asymmetric “L-shaped” design results in a family of ligands that reliably produce structurally analogous silver(I) dimers. Ligands that maintain the π-conjugation of the iminopyridine motif consistently give silver(I) dimers with visible light absorption due to metal–metal to ligand charge transfer (MMLCT) transitions, and introduction of anionic (X-type) sites further increases stability in solution. 

A comprehensive educational strategy designed to make small-molecule crystallography more accessible for students at various academic levels is described. By integrating hands-on laboratory visits, structured courses and advanced application training, we cultivate a deep understanding of fundamental crystallographic concepts while fostering practical skills. This strategy also aims to inspire novice learners, building their confidence and interest in structural science. Our approach demystifies complex concepts through real-world examples and interactive case-learning modules, enabling students to proficiently apply crystallography in their research. The resulting educational impact is evident in numerous publications from undergraduates, scholarship awards to graduates and successful independent research projects, highlighting the effectiveness of our programme in inspiring the next generation of chemical crystallographers. 

Abstract Over the past two decades, there has been a substantial increase in the number of synthetically useful transformations catalyzed by silver. Across the range of silver‐catalyzed reactions that have been reported, dinuclear species often emerge as a common feature, either as the (pre‐)catalysts themselves or as intermediates during catalysis. This Minireview explores the role of dinuclear silver complexes in homogeneous catalysis, which we hope will aid in the development of improved design principles for silver catalysts. 

Redox-active metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for a number of next-generation technologies, and recent work has shown that redox manipulation can dramatically enhance electrical conductivity in MOFs. However, ligand-based strategies for controlling conductivity remain under-developed, particularly those that make use of reversible redox processes. Here we report the first use of ligand n-doping to engender electrical conductivity in a porous 3D MOF, leading to tunable conductivity values that span over six orders of magnitude. Moreover, this work represents the first example of redox switching leading to reversible conductivity changes in a 3D MOF.