Research 

Our laboratory seeks to develop a research program at the interface of strategic asymmetric methods and target-oriented synthesis, with the overarching goal of designing new chemical strategies that enable the rapid assembly of complex small molecules. We also draw inspiration from the rich diversity of molecular architectures found in nature to guide the development of innovative strategies and synthetic methodologies. 

I. Strategic Stereoselective Desymmetrization Methodologies 

A primary focal point in our laboratory will be the development of new chemical strategies that can rapidly assemble complex molecules. 

A central focus of our work will be the creation of new stereoselective desymmetrization methods. The foundation of this research lies in the design of simple intermediates that merge a symmetrical unit containing multiple reactive sites with a chiral unit readily accessible from chiral pools. These enantiomeric scaffolds will serve as fundamental templates with tactically versatile functionality, allowing for asymmetric elaboration and the controlled introduction of additional functional groups. Such strategies will provide efficient access to complex molecular architectures with high stereocontrol under mild conditions. 

II. Asymmetric total synthesis of tetrahydrofuran-based natural products.

In the context of natural product synthesis, targets will be selected on the basis of their biological activity and structural complexity. Our laboratory will look to the vast array of molecular architectures found in nature as inspiration for the subsequent development of new strategies and methods. 

Targets of interest include cordigol, isombamichalcone, lophirone H, and lophirone F, which present unique challenges and opportunities for advancing new synthetic strategies.