Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

The plethora of successful methodologies available in organic synthesis has reached an impressive number, but there is still a long way to go to synthesize any molecule using highly efficient methods having minimal environmental impact. The specific aim of our research will be directed towards the development of new and efficient methods for the selective synthesis of organic compounds. As organic chemists, we always strive not only to improve existing synthetic methods, but also to develop new and more effective ones. To that effect, more powerful, greener, and protecting-group-free are still needed. This area of organic chemistry is of primary importance due to today's necessity for enantiomerically pure compounds in a variety of related disciplines (pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, biology, material sciences, biochemistry, food sciences, etc.). We will develop novel tools to help control the specificity of a given chemical transformation. Among the priorities, highly reaction diazo reagents, cyclopropane synthesis and functionalization, highly efficient formation of heterocycles, and novel amide synthesis procedures are the most important themes. Catalysis, which is featured as one of the 12 principles of Green chemistry will play a central role in the development of new methods. We are also taking full advantage of a technique called micro reactor technology also known as continuous flow synthesis. This is an emerging and powerful technique that enables reaction conditions previously thought to be too hazardous to be carried out in "batch" (high temperature, hazardous reagents, etc.). The versatility of the micro reactors allows the safe, facile, and rapid production from mg to multi-gram scale without significant modification of the reaction protocol. Furthermore, this technique also enables the incorporation of photochemical and electrochemical transformations for the scale-up in continuous fashion, a feature that is very difficult or even impossible to achieve in batch. The fruits of our research will be extremely important for both the academic and industrial sectors, because the target compounds are critical intermediates that will lead to the development of new products in the various fields stated above. Considering that several chemistry-related companies are based in the greater Montreal area, we anticipate that our research will naturally strengthen and complement their existing R&D programs, thus help them hone their competitive edge in the global economy. As well, a new generation of highly qualified scientists possessing unique skills and a modern mindset on organic chemistry and green practices will be perfectly trained to join the workforce and to ensure a flow of unique expertise into the marketplace. In addition, the potential for discoveries that will emerge from our research will open the door to innovation, which, ultimately, will create a healthier and cleaner environment for the Canadian population at large.