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Mechanism investigation

The development of synthetic methods and their progression towards being generally applicable hinges on our understanding of the reaction mechanism. Our team utilizes mechanism to guide reaction development and catalyst design, in particular in the investigation of underexplored reactive intermediates. We use fundamental understanding of reaction mechanism to facilitate problem solving and enable real-world impact. 

Reaction development

Synthetic methodologies power the modern world, from medicine to electronics to polymers to cosmetics. Each synthetic strategy relies on a specific set of starting materials to achieve the desired bond formations. We expand the available precursors by developing new methods for selective functionalization of common place starting materials directly from their C-H bonds by the combination of transition metal catalysis and underdeveloped reactive intermediates. 

Catalyst design

Our ability to manipulate chemical structures is limited by the intrinsic characteristics of the molecule itself. Through transition metal catalyst design, we can unlock traditionally inert bonds for functionalization. By utilizing catalytic systems, we seek to address both sustainability and fundamental reactivity questions that remain in organic synthesis. 

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