Experimental self-assembly: the many facets of self-assembly

The self-assembly of matter is manifested throughout the hierarchy of the universe in a myriad of modes, both biotic and abiotic. It is not only an area of deep interest as a fundamental prerequisite to life, but it is now emerging as a strategy to many new unanticipated synthetic architectures, unique properties and commercial applications. In this issue, II authors review recent advances in each of these realms. Considering the vastness of the subject, we have chosen to focus on selected highlights in three general areas, namely: (i) synthesis; (ii) dynamics/characterization/external parameters affecting assembly; and (iii) theoretical/biological perspectives.