Organic Synthesis

Our Organic Synthesis research group largely focuses on the development of novel synthetic methods and applications of these in target synthesis, most often either natural products or biologically active compounds of pharmaceutical or agrochemical significance. In many cases, the inspiration for developing the new methodology arises from a consideration of the structural features of such targets.

Areas of current interest are:

• main group chemistry catalysis using iodine, boron, and aluminium reagents
• electrochemical reactions as an environmentally friendly technology
• reactions in flow systems
• synthesis of energetic materials

Driven by the demands of industry and environmental considerations, much of our work is aimed at defining new methods for the highly efficient and catalytic generation of such compounds. A particularly strong theme is the formation of such compounds by the electrophile-driven addition of nucleophiles to unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds.

Organocatalysis, an increasingly important area in view of the toxicity of many transition metals, is well represented within our group. Current target types include complex polycyclic peptides, alkaloids, steroids, terpene alkaloids and plant-derived oxygen heterocycles.

Our research group has strong interdisciplinary collaborations in the UK and worldwide. Our project links with international institutions can lead to students having placements abroad.

Contacts