Supramolecular Cage Catalysis

This project will involve the development of novel bio-inspired, supramolecular cages and their application to enantioselective catalysis. This project combines the Lusby group's expertise in cage catalysis (see J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2018, 140, 16877-16881; J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2020, 142, 2134-2139; J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2020, 142, 17743-17750) and Lam's track record in developing new enantioselective catalysis methods (see Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2018, 57, 9122-9125; Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2017, 56, 16352-16356). The project will involve aspects of organic synthesis, coordination self-assembly and various analytical methods related to host-guest chemistry and kinetic analysis of catalytic processes. The successful candidate will have experience in any or more than one of these areas, and enjoy the creative aspects of cage catalyst design and analysis. It is essential that they can work as a team, communicating between researchers at two sites. They will also be expected to spend significant time at both universities.