Research - Introduction

Interests: Asymmetric catalysis and synthesis, especially using transition metal complexes and metallocenes. Self-recognition, replication and catalysis in the prebiotic environment.
Catalysis is a central discipline within chemistry and fundamental requirement for the existence of life. An objective of much of our work is the design and synthesis of novel chiral catalysts and the application of these to the asymmetric synthesis of biologically active molecules. Underpinning this research is methodology developed within the group for the asymmetric synthesis of functionalised metallocenes and late-transition metal complexes, which we have also applied to the synthesis of novel molecular gears.
Catalysis is directly involved in all aspects of the chemistry of life. Indeed, the biological activity of a molecule is frequently a result of its ability to mediate catalyst activity by enzyme binding. Despite its importance, the role of catalysis in the emergence of life from the prebiotic environment is poorly understood. We are developing model systems to investigate possible mechanisms by which molecules acquire the necessary structural information to accelerate and control the formation of one another.