Multicomponent assembly of second-generation fluorocarbons through frustrated Lewis pair catalysed selective C-F bond activation

Project description

Fluorocarbons are intrinsic to many modern technologies but can be environmentally hazardous. As such, developing methods for the repurposing and reuse of fluorocarbons is vital to their responsible continued use. This project focuses on employing frustrated Lewis pair and Lewis acid catalysis for ready access to sophisticated organic scaffolds directly from fluorocarbons that can be utilized in materials, pharmaceutical, agrochemicals and fine chemicals. Emphasis will be placed on recycling leaving groups for optimized atom economy and developing multicomponent reactions for direct access to complicated structures from simple components. Students will be trained in organometallic, organic and catalytic synthetic protocols, and will have the opportunity to be trained in advanced analytical experimental techniques including crystallographic diffractometry, high resolution mass spectrometry and advanced NMR spectrometry techniques.

Outcomes

Fluorocarbon chemistry is growing at a rapid rate and chemists trained in the synthesis, handling and disposal of fluorocarbons will be in high demand in the coming decades. The student recruited in this project will become well trained in all aspects of organometallic and organic chemistries. They will also become experienced in aspects of fluorocarbon chemistry and catalysis. Student training is the primary outcome of this project. The project will also provide a platform for the groups of Young and Hazra to launch competitive applications to address contemporary challenges regarding fluorocarbon recylcling.

Essential capabilities

The candiate must have training in chemistry subjects relevant to organic and/or organometallic synthesis

Desireable capabilities

The candidate should have research experience in a synthetic chemistry laboratory

Expected qualifications (Course/Degrees etc.)

The candidate must have an MSc in chemistry

Additional information for applicants

note: i-students must have own scholarship to apply (CSIR, UCG-NET, etc)