New methods for synthetic organic chemistry

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The primary research objective in my group is the development of new synthetic methods, with emphasis oncatalytic enantioselective procedures for the simple and straightforward preparation of biologically andcommercially important molecules. The specific aims of this project involve the development of catalyticreactions using bismuth(III) salts. We wish to explore the catalytic effects of bismuth salts because bismuth isa cheap and non-toxic element. Moreover, Lewis acids able to catalyze enantioselective reactions under mildand environmentally benign conditions represent an extraordinary challenge for the synthetic chemist.The innovative element of this project is the development of catalytic enantioselective reactions usingbismuth(III) salts. Very limited examples have appeared in the literature involving catalytic asymmetric Mukaiyama aldol reactions. In this context, there is clearly a need for the development of new chiral bismuth(III) catalysts that are cheap, easy to handle, and sufficiently Lewis acidic. We wish to extend the development of a bismuth(III) based enantioselective procedure to the Mannich-type reaction.The project presented here falls within a research field of asymmetric organic synthesis using a bismuth(III) catalyst. This field is of significant importance as it has placed Canada at a level of excellence in the pharmaceutical and fine chemistry industry. Our proposed research program will contribute to the training of highly specialized personnel in the sectors of synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry.