Introductory description

This module encompasses advanced synthesis of molecules across the fields of inorganic, organic and supramolecular chemistry, from small to large structures relevant in catalysis, molecular machines, medicines and as precursors to (nano)materials. The module aims to provide the required skills to participate in practical synthetic chemistry at research level.

Module web page

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.

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.
Depending on the nature of contemporary research and the particular research interests of staff members, at least four of the following areas will be addressed: precursors for inorganic synthesis; polar-organometallic reagents; bioinorganic chemistry; total synthesis, including disconnection strategies and protecting groups; stereocontrol and asymmetric induction; synthesis of mechanically interlocked molecules; homogenous transition metal catalysis & small molecule activation; soluble metal-organic cages and extended metal-organic frameworks.
By definition this module will focus on recent research and the specific examples and literature
discussed may differ on a year-to-year basis.
The module will be structured into four themed sets of lectures, with each accompanied by a corresponding suite of dedicated directed reading from the scientific literature and practical workshop time.

Learning outcomes

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

• Appreciate frontier topics in inorganic and organic molecular synthesis
• Design synthetic pathways to molecular structures
• Critically analyse contemporary literature in this research area
• Demonstrate enhanced knowledge of practical and analytical techniques relating to contemporary molecular synthesis

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Specific reading list for the module

Subject specific skills

Atomic and Molecular Structure
Functional Group Reactivity and Stereochemistry
Coordination Chemistry and Periodicity

Transferable skills

Critical thinking
Problem solving