Developing Selective P-catalysts for Dehydrative Transformations

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT This proposal will elucidate the various steric and electronic parameters of a P-catalyst necessary for enantioinduction in tandem amidation/amide functionalizations through deoxygenative P(III)/P(V) catalysis; an important transformation for the synthesis of biologically active compounds. This proposal will first examine P- catalyzed enantioselective amidations, followed by P-catalyzed enantioretentive amide functionalizations. Finally, these catalysts will be combined for a one-pot synthesis of enantioenriched secondary nitriles from racemic carboxylic acids, a moiety important to the pharmaceutical community. Overall, during this fellowship period I seek to gain expertise in inorganic main-group chemistry, including computational analyses and modern inorganic synthetic techniques. Such skills will complement my existing skillset, creating a strong foundation in catalyst design for my future career goals.