Backscattering Interferometry
Backscattering Interferometry (BSI) is an analytical technique that detects changes in the refractive index of a solution as two species bind. Experiments can be performed in free-solution, without labels or surface tethering. The signal arises from a bulk change in the optical density, due to factors such as conformational changes, solvation, and polarizability. A variety of systems has been studied, including enzyme-inhibitor interactions, DNA hybridization, and hydrogen bonding of small organic molecules.
Single Electron Oxidations with Silver
The focus of this research is the mechanistic investigations of several silver-catalyzed reactions that proceed through single-electron oxidations, including carbon-carbon bond formation and alkyl fluorination. A great deal of recent effort has focused on metal-catalyzed oxidations, in particular silver catalysis combined with the use of a terminal oxidant. The goal of this research is to understand the mechanism of several reactions of synthetic importance that proceed through single-electron oxidation in order to further optimize and develop methods for metal-catalyzed bond formation.
Titanocene-Catalyzed Radical Arylation of Epoxides
The primary focus of this project is to develop efficient ways to carry out titanocene-catalyzed radical arylation of epoxides. In order to accomplish this, it is imperative to understand these radical arylation processes at a mechanistic level. Current work is geared towards investigating the role of the various components in the overall catalytic cycle to further fine-tune the process for future applications.
Solvent and Additive Effects in Sm(II) Reductions
The utility of samarium diiodide has long been recognized for a variety of functional group transformations. The goal of this project is to determine the role of solvent and additives in the mechanism of these reactions through kinetic analysis. Ideally, a better understanding of these systems can lead to an efficient catalytic system, making this powerful reductant more economical.