Our research is mainly based upon the use of free radicals in organic synthesis and polymer chemistry. We develop new methodology for mediating radical reactions with control of regio- and stereochemistry using green chemistry. We have developed a range of copper based catalysts to facilitate C-C bond formation in cyclisation reactions. We also have an interest in the chemistry of hydroxamic acids and organozirconium chemistry.

Targets: Heterocycles, atropisomeric enamides, beta-lactams, gamma-lactams, phenanthridine alkaloids, L-755807, trikendiol, kainic acids, indolizidines, oxindoles and strained bicyclo gamma-lactam derivatives. For a publication list see here:

 

 

For more specific examples of our research see:

Copper catalysed atom transfer radical cyclisation. Key paper.

CuSO₄.5H₂O in C/C bond formation. Key paper.

Catalysts for atom transfer radical cyclisation. Key paper

Atropisomeric enamides and their use in asymmetric chemistry. Key paper

Beta-lactam synthesis. Key paper.

Solid supported reagents for radical reactions. Key paper.

Novel 5-endo radical-polar crossover reactions. Key paper.

Amidyl Radical Cyclisations.Key Paper.

Novel triple crossover reactions to trikendiol skeleton. Coming soon-hopefully!

 

 

Collaborators

Prof. Dennis Curran

Prof. Mark Smith

Dr. David Fox

Prof. Robert Deeth

Sponsors

AstraZeneca

Lilly UK

Aventis

Roche

Knoll Pharmaceuticals

EPSRC