Research Areas

ORGANOCATALYSIS 

Organocatalysis offers a metal-free and sustainable strategy for activating inert C–H bonds in organic molecules. By using small organic molecules as catalysts—such as amines, ureas, or N-heterocyclic carbenes—this approach enables direct C–H functionalization under mild conditions without the need for transition metals.

This methodology leverages non-covalent interactions or transient intermediates (e.g., iminium ions, enamines, radicals) to selectively transform C–H bonds into C–C, C–N, or C–O bonds. Organocatalytic C–H functionalization is particularly valued for its:

• High chemo- and regioselectivity

• Mild and environmentally benign conditions

• Broad substrate compatibility, including complex, bioactive molecules

Applications range from natural product synthesis to late-stage functionalization in drug development, aligning with green chemistry principles and next-generation synthetic design.

PHOTOCATALYSIS 

Photocatalysis harnesses light energy to drive chemical reactions, offering a powerful and sustainable strategy in organic synthesis. By enabling precise bond transformations under mild conditions, photocatalysis is revolutionizing how chemists build complex molecules. It exists in two main forms: homogeneous and heterogeneous, each with distinct benefits.

Homogeneous photocatalysis uses soluble catalysts like metal complexes or organic dyes in a uniform solution. It offers excellent control over reactivity and selectivity, making it ideal for finely tuned reactions such as C–H activation, cross-coupling, and radical-mediated transformations.

Heterogeneous photocatalysis employs solid catalysts like TiO₂ or carbon nitride that interact with liquid or gas-phase reactants. These systems are highly stable, recyclable, and well-suited for scalable or continuous-flow applications, especially in green chemistry and selective redox processes.

MATERIAL CHEMISTRY 

Material chemistry plays an increasingly vital role in advancing organic synthesis by enabling new reactivity, improving efficiency, and supporting sustainable practices. Through the design and application of functional materials such as porous solids, nanomaterials, hybrid frameworks, and conductive polymers-chemists can control molecular interactions, catalysis, and reaction environments with unprecedented precision.

Key contributions of material chemistry to organic synthesis include:

• Solid-Supported Catalysts: Recyclable and robust platforms (e.g., silica, polymers, metal-organic frameworks) for clean, scalable transformations

• Photocatalytic Materials: Engineered semiconductors and nanomaterials that drive redox reactions using light or electricity

• Functional Surfaces and Interfaces: Tailored materials for regioselective synthesis, flow chemistry, and continuous manufacturing

• Green Chemistry Applications: Minimizing waste and energy use through reusable, low-toxicity materials.