Introductory description

This module builds on core concepts covered in Year 1 and Year 2 to understand more advanced organic reactions, expanding the synthetic chemistry toolbox and enabling complex design principles, with reference to retrosynthetic analysis, for the synthesis of functional organic molecules to be understood.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module is split into 4 coherent topics (A-D) that will be delivered via traditional lecture delivery.
Topic A: Pericyclic and cyclisation reactions
Topic B. Reactive intermediates
Topic C. Diastereoselective synthesis
Topic D. Asymmetric reactions and atropisomerism
This content will be consolidated by supporting workshops in which a retrosynthetic approach (Topic E) to the chemistry covered will be taken.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Predict and explain the outcomes of a range of pericyclic, radical and polar cyclisation reactions.
• Understand and apply reactive intermediates in synthesis.
• Understand, explain and predict the stereochemical outcome of diastereoselective reactions of chiral molecules including the synthesis, use and removal of chiral auxiliaries
• Understand and apply a range of catalytic asymmetric reactions to complex targets.
• Critically analyse the synthesis of complex known molecules understanding and understand why commercial routes are chosen.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

Ability to develop strategies, via retrosynthetic analysis, for the synthesis of functional organic molecules.

Transferable skills

Communication
Critical Thinking
Digital Literacy
Information Literacy
Problem Solving
Professionalism
Sustainability
Teamwork