Welcome to the Zhang Lab at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Our research is driven by a simple question: Can we discover new ways for molecules to react, and use these discoveries to rethink how complex molecules are made?

We seek to uncover new chemical reactivity and develop unconventional strategies for molecular synthesis. By combining fundamental mechanistic understanding with creative reaction design, we aim to transform readily available molecules into valuable building blocks and enable synthetic transformations that are difficult to achieve through conventional approaches. Ultimately, we strive to develop chemistry that not only solves important synthetic challenges, but also opens new possibilities for the construction and late-stage modification of biologically and medicinally relevant molecules.

At the Zhang Lab, we value curiosity, creativity, open-mindedness, and collaboration. We believe that the most exciting discoveries often emerge when we challenge established ideas, explore unexpected reactivity, and remain willing to follow where the chemistry leads.