Catalytic and biocatalytic C-X bond formation

This project will focus on the development of new catalytic approaches for C-X bond activation and C-X bond formation using bioinspired hydrogen bond donor catalysts. The project will initially focus on the activation of C-F bonds and installation of C-B bonds but will likely expand to other systems. The project will involve synthesis of model systems to understand the desired bond activation/formation. This will lead to a methodology encompassing optimisation stages, catalyst modelling, and assessment of scope. Throughout, physical-organic chemistry techniques will be used to understand mechanism and inform on the process under development.