Homogeneous Catalysis

Our research aims towards the invention of new strategies for the development of “perfect chemical reactions” that combine quantitative yields and high atom economy, while avoiding toxic solvents, protecting group strategies, extreme temperatures, or inert gas atmosphere. We approach this ultimate goal by using selective catalysis based on small organic molecules. In recent years, it has been demonstrated that these organocatalysts can be as efficient and selective as the more commonly used metal-based catalysts, leading to a rapid growth of this field of research all around the globe. As a result of our ongoing investigations, our group was the first to demonstrate the concept of asymmetric counteranion-directed catalysis (ACDC) in 2005. Further investigations target the application of organocatalytic reactions in the synthesis of drugs and natural products.

Research Topics:

Aminocatalysis

We explore small-molecule amines as asymmetric catalysts for carbonyl transformations. “Asymmetric Aminocatalysis” functions by activating carbonyl compounds as iminium ions and enamines using a catalytic amount of an amine. Our strategy complements.... [more]

Brønsted-Acid-Catalysis

Due to the vast number of reactions that can be catalyzed by Brønsted acids, a core area of our research focuses on the development and application of chiral organic Brønsted acids for asymmetric counteranion-directed catalysis (ACDC). To date...
[more]

Organic Lewis Acid Catalysis

To date, the field of Lewis acid catalysis has been dominated by (transition) metal chemistry. To provide purely organic counterparts to these traditional catalytic systems we are dedicated to the synthesis and identification of organic Lewis acids. In 2009, we demonstrated that our chiral disulfonimides (DSI) are not only excellent Brønsted acids, but form strong Lewis acids upon silylation. [more]

Looking for the “perfect chemical reaction”

Homogeneous Catalysis

Research Topics:

Aminocatalysis

Brønsted-Acid-Catalysis

Organic Lewis Acid Catalysis

Looking for the “perfect chemical reaction”

“Holy Grail” found for catalytic alkane activation

Building bridges between Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Catalysis

Katalyse für die Welt

Verleihung des Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibnitz-Preises

Research Reports:

Picture Gallery

The List Laboraory