Research
Directional Ionic Bonds
Nonpolar shields impart directionality to ionic bonds to provide an alternative to hydrogen bonds and other directional noncovalent interactions for the structuring of molecules and materials. For the introduction of directional ionic bonds, see JACS 2023.
Spatial anion control in catalysis
Spatial control of anion geometry on transition metals can provide highly sophisticated catalysts for difficult reactions, such as the direct activation of inert C–H bonds. For the introduction of the spatial anion control concept, see JACS 2020.
Direct C–H activation
The functionalizations of C–H bonds in mild conditions without the need for directing groups can provide transformative methodologies for organic synthesis. We make new catalysts and develop new concepts to enable such reactions in mild conditions. For C–H arylation of arenes at room temperature, see JACS 2020.
Coordination chemistry
Coordination chemistry provides essential insights for the design of advanced catalysts. We rationally design transition metal precatalysts and study coordination geometries of potential catalysts using new sophisticated anions. For example, see JACS 2020.