cataleesis

This research program focuses on the development of cyclopropenimine-based ligands and their application in transition metal catalysis. While cyclopropenimines have primarily been utilized as Brønsted bases in organic synthesis, their potential as Lewis bases—particularly as ligands coordinating to metal centers—remains relatively underexplored. By leveraging their strong electron-donating ability and redox activity, we aim to create new catalytic platforms that enable challenging bond-forming reactions under mild conditions. Notably, our group was the first to utilize a metal complex ligated by the imino nitrogen of a cyclopropenimine scaffold as an active catalyst (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 145, 24897). Our efforts include the development of a ligand library, isolation and characterization of (high-valent) metal species, and mechanistic studies to understand and expand their catalytic potential.

This research program focuses on the development of cyclopropenimine-based ligands and their application in transition metal catalysis. While cyclopropenimines have primarily been utilized as Brønsted bases in organic synthesis, their potential as Lewis bases—particularly as ligands coordinating to metal centers—remains relatively underexplored. By leveraging their strong electron-donating ability and redox activity, we aim to create new catalytic platforms that enable challenging bond-forming reactions under mild conditions. Notably, our group was the first to utilize a metal complex ligated by the imino nitrogen of a cyclopropenimine scaffold as an active catalyst (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 145, 24897). Our efforts include the development of a ligand library, isolation and characterization of (high-valent) metal species, and mechanistic studies to understand and expand their catalytic potential.