We are an organic chemistry research group in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto. Our interests lie at the interface of the areas of organic synthesis and molecular recognition.

Research themes:

1. Synthetic methodology

    We develop new methods for the preparation of useful classes of organic compounds. We are particularly interested using insight from the field of molecular recognition as the basis for new reactivity or selectivity. Our current work includes new applications of unexplored noncovalent and reversible covalent interactions in selective catalysis.

2. Molecular recognition and chemical sensing

    We carry out fundamental studies of noncovalent interactions: our approach includes both experimental characterization of the interactions and computational modeling. Understanding the physical basis of noncovalent interactions, and identifying methods that successfully predict their strengths,  are prerequisites for applications of these interactions in many areas. Along this line, we design and study new molecules and materials that are able to selectively bind to and signal the presence of specific analytes. We are interested both in developing ‘hosts’ based on previously unexplored classes of noncovalent interactions, and in exploring new ways to transduce binding events into easily measured signals. A key component of this project is the synthesis and characterization of new classes of electronic polymers. 

Areas of expertise:

1. -Organic synthesis and catalysis
   

2. -Polymer synthesis and characterization
   

3. -Physical and computational methods