Our group is interested in metal complexes containing metal-carbon multiple bonds (alkylidenes and alkylidynes) and their application for catalysis to make valuable chemicals, including pharmaceuticals and functional materials.

Vanadium Alkylidenes

Our lab leads the development of V alkylidenes for olefin metathesis involving acyclic olefins. Thus, we have developed several generations of catalysts in the last few years to perform ring-closing metathesis.

Vanadium-Based Carbon Isotope Exchange

The incorporation of carbon isotopes into drug candidates is one of the essential tools for studying drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME), and pharmacokinetics properties of novel pharmaceuticals. Carbon isotope exchange (CIE), performed directly on the target molecule, is an ideal method to introduce carbon isotope efficiently. The key step of the proposed approach is olefin metathesis, which allows reversible and facile C−C double bond breaking and forming sequence that leads to the exchange of isotopically labeled =*CH₂ moiety between two olefins. Recently, we discovered a unique catalytic system based on V alkylidenes that has a remarkable preference for the formation 1,3-MCB and, therefore, excludes the formation of cross-product. We successfully utilized this system to perform CIE involving terminal olefins.

Vanadium Alkylidynes

V(+5) alkylidynes present the significantly underdeveloped class of 3d Schrock carbynes that can be utilized in numerous transformations, including alkyne metathesis. We have developed a simple, scalable, and reproducible method for converting a V(+5) oxo complex to a V(+5) alkylidyne in three steps without altering the oxidation state of the metal center. Our studies aim to the develop the first alkyne metathesis catalyzed by a first-row metal and open up a new chapter in the field.

Alternating copolymers for simultaneous anion and cation capture

The Hanford site contains the largest accumulation of nuclear waste in the Western Hemisphere. Large amounts of tank and solid wastes are stored, some of which have been accidentally released into the environment, presenting exposure risks to workers and the population. Advanced capture and monitoring technologies are necessary to identify leaks and remediate groundwater and soils contaminated with radioactive and toxic materials. In our project, we utilize alternating copolymers, where monomer units of varying chemical functions are arranged in an ordered fashion for simultaneous anion and cation capture from tank waste, taking advantage of maintaining ion-pair contacts. The project’s ultimate goal is to develop the technology for accurate and reliable leakage monitoring in Hanford and other nuclear waste storage sites.