1,2-Dicarbofunctionalization of Alkenes by Merging Photoredox and Transition-Metal Catalysis

ended

PHOTALLICA aims to develop a general approach towards the 1,2-dicarbofunctionalization of unactivated alkenes to afford highly functionalized carbon skeletons. The outlined strategy is based on a 3-component cross-coupling reaction in which the reactivity of the coupling partners is governed by merging a photoredox and a transition-metal catalytic cycle. The specific objectives of this action are to give access to 1,2-arylalkyl, 1,2-dialkyl and 1,2-diaryl substitution patterns starting from unactivated alkenes, radical precursors, and electrophiles or nucleophiles as the coupling partners, as well as to study the mechanism of the developed transformations. The products are vicinal substituted alkyl chains, which are prevalent motifs in biologically active compounds. The action aligns with H2020 societal challenges that seek to improve resource efficiency and the use of raw materials as –as opposed to the state-of-the-art strategies– it avoids the use of pre-functionalized alkenes by using feedstock olefins, instead. The background in transition-metal catalyzed transformations of the candidate (Eloísa Serrano, ES), together with the expertise of the host (Prof. Frank Glorius, FG, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Germany) on the development dual photoredox strategies, make an ideal combination to realize PHOTALLICA. The developed transformations will have an impact on the way α-olefins, which are produced on multi-ton scale by the chemical industry, are functionalized by providing a more efficient disconnection approach towards vicinal substituted alkyl scaffolds. By developing the action in a dynamic and renowned research group, the candidate will acquire new skills in project management, mentoring, leadership and communication.