The Neufeldt lab develops new catalytic methods that can streamline the synthesis of organic compounds or transform simple molecules into value-added products. In particular, our research centers around the use of molecular transition metal catalysts whose properties can be tuned by their ligand environment. We value mechanistic insight as a critical tool for rational catalyst design. For this reason, our research approach integrates experimental and computational techniques.
Controlling Selectivity in Catalysis
One area of research focuses on controlling selectivity in cross coupling reactions. For example, we are studying the ways that N-heterocyclic carbene and phosphine ligands influence palladium and nickel’s preference for reaction at different positions of electrophiles. Our goal is to develop catalytic systems for cross coupling that can provide unconventional selectivity, thereby improving the versatility of cross-coupling in organic synthesis.
New Cross-Coupling Methodology
Another research area is developing new cross coupling reactions using phenol-derived electrophiles. We recently reported the first example of a Ni-catalyzed cross coupling of non-triflate phenol derivatives with organotin reagents. Our group is continuing to investigate strategies for improving the reactivity of relatively non-labile phenol derivatives with transition metals. This work will enable the use of cross-coupling reactions within more diverse synthetic schemes.
Hydrocarbon Activation
A third research area is activation of inert hydrocarbons using early transition metals. We are investigating the reactivity of tantalum with alkyl C–H bonds. Our goal is to develop new strategies for transforming small alkanes into more valuable heavier hydrocarbons.
