The New Methods in Organic Synthesis group focuses on the development of innovative methods in organic synthesis. It aims to harness powerful synthetic tools such as polar organometallic chemistry, radical processes, transition metal catalysis) to solve important and modern synthetic challenges (e.g. controlled polymerization, alkyne functionalization, stereodefined cycloadditions...). The novelty of our research design is highlighted by the controlled behaviour of highly transient intermediates. A close relationship is established with the Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Interfaces group as these newly developed strategies can be exploited to reach complex molecular structures with potential biological activities (N-heterocycles, endoperoxides...).
Three teams are working together in the thematic group:
● Cycloadditions of unusual dipoles (Alexis Archambeau)
The research focuses primarily on the development of novel transformations for the preparation of stereodefined heterocyclic compounds. We are particularly interested in original cycloadditions transformations relying on modern organotransition metal catalysis.
● Small (Metalla)cycles (Yvan Six)
The research activities mainly focused on organotitanium chemistry and on the chemistry of small cycles (cyclopropanes and cyclobutanes).
● Radical Chemistry (Samir Zard)
The research activities mainly concern the development of new synthesis methods using radical or ionic chemistry (chemistry of sulfur, nitrated, fluorinated or acetylenic derivatives). Part of the activity is also dedicated to the total synthesis of natural products and controlled polymerization