Nickel Catalysis with Sterically-Hindered Substrates

Nickel catalysis offers many opportunities for synthetic chemistry, including new reactions to access new chemical space, and the replacement of expensive and less green heavy metals (such as palladium). However, progress in the field requires a detailed understanding of the scope and limitations of nickel catalysis and further work to overcome these limitations.

This project will examine nickel-catalysed reactions that involve sterically-hindered aryl halides. Products that are made from this class of substrate might have valuable biological properties but at present there are relatively few examples of nickel-catalysed reactions that can deploy these substrates.

During the course of this studentship collaboration we will develop a fundamental understanding of relevant reaction mechanisms and structure/reactivity relationships, use this information to develop the next generation of nickel-catalysed reactions, and deliver impact in the chemical industry.