GENERAL OUTLINE OF CHEMISTRY

We are interested in developing new lanthanide complexes that can be used as reagents and/or catalysts in organic chemistry. In particular we anticipate preparing chiral lanthanide complexes for applications in asymmetric synthesis. Initial work in the group is focusing on the development of new ligand systems that are mixed, N,O chelates. All of the complexes proposed are new and this fundamental work will serve to better understand the unique and complex chemistry of the lanthanide series. All of the ligand targets chosen are highly variable, thereby permitting a “high-throughput” strategy to be used for catalyst discovery.

IN THE LABORATORY

In my labs a student could anticipate developing a wide range of synthetic skills. We will be making molecules . . . and lots of them! For organolanthanide chemistry air-sensitive handling techniques are fundamental, including glove box and vacuum line techniques. The characterization of these complexes will rely on X-ray crystallography (where a student could learn to solve structures in the departmental X-ray facility) IR and NMR spectroscopy, including 2-D and variable temperature work. Because these complexes will then be used for organic chemistry, the student would develop these techniques as well (including column chromatography). In the asymmetric portions of the project, students will be exposed to chiral GC, polarimetry and chiral resolutions. Every student can expect to gain experience in all or most of the above-mentioned techniques. However, all research projects in the group may take on a more “organic or inorganic flavour” and that direction is entirely student dependent. Consequently, I suggest my graduate students take courses in both the inorganic and organic divisions, with an emphasis on synthetic chemistry.

OTHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

In addition to laboratory techniques and course work, a student in my group can anticipate having many opportunities to develop related scientific skills, including writing, preparing presentations, giving seminars and valuable time management skills. Students will contribute to the writing of manuscripts of their work. We hold weekly group meetings that include literature and research presentations. The department hosts several seminar series and poster sessions throughout the year to further promote scientific discussion. I also encourage students to attend conferences and would expect senior students to present their work both nationally and internatio nally.

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE

I personally believe in a balanced approach to life. Consequently, in addition to the academic focus that graduate school demands, I encourage students to participate in sports, community service and other recreational activities. Graduate school should be an exciting, challenging and rewarding experience. I hope to provide the kind of individualized training experience that will allow each student to develop to his/her full potential, as scientists and scholars.

Last updated on Oct 18, 2001