ProfessorChristopher McErlean

• Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Reaction development
• Total synthesis

We are interested in developing new reactions, and applying known reactions in novel ways, in an effort to reduce the complexity of natural product synthesis.

Expanding the scope of the Stetter reaction: The 'umpolung' addition of aldehydes onto unsaturated carbonyl compounds is an under-utilised method for carbon-carbon bond construction. We are investigating variants of this reaction that allow for the rapid construction of fused-ring systems from simple starting materials. We are also exploring the ability of the Stetter reaction to install new stereocentres under substrate control.

Palladium-catalysed tetrahydrofuran synthesis: Numerous natural products and biologically active compounds contain a substituted tetrahydrofuran unit. We are employing a short, high-yielding, palladium-catalysed protocol to synthesis a series of these natural products.

Ligand design for new reactions: Mimicking nature's ability to incorporate stereogenic elements into substrate compounds is a major driving force in contemporary chemistry. We are involved in the rational design and efficient synthesis of ligands that will allow new reactions to be accomplished.

Prof McErlean's research aligns with the Faculty of Science Research Strength - Molecules to Materials.