Discovery of Enantioselective Halogen-Bonded Catalysts for C-C and CX Bond Forming Reactions

Name of Supervisor: Prof Anton Vidal

More informationL http://www.iciq.org/research/research_group/prof-anton-vidal/

Description of the project:
This project aims to construct bidentate metal catalysts employing halogen bonding interactions. The design principle resides in the generation of catalysts by using one building block containing a halogen-bond donor motif and another one incorporating a halogen-bond acceptor moiety. The preparation of an array of structurally diverse catalysts will be studied, once the basic concept is put to work.

This project also aims at developing new catalytic methods for enantioselective transformations that currently lack a satisfactory solution (earth-abundant-metal based C-B, C-O and C-C bond forming reactions) and applying the discovered catalysts to the stereoselective synthesis of compounds with biological interest.

Preferred skills or background:
The position is ideal for eligible and talented candidates, who are highly motivated for pursuing the doctoral degree, are imaginative and willing to benefit from the breadth and depth of experience that the research group and host institution offer. A strong background in organic and inorganic synthesis would be advantageous.