Catalytic cross-coupling reactions that unite simple organic building blocks continue to increase in scope, utility, and frequency of use. Progress in this field stems from improved mechanistic understanding, development of new catalysts, and identification of new functional groups that can be activated and engaged in cross-couplings and related transformations. In this seminar, strategies to incorporate esters, aldehydes, and alcohols into Ni-catalyzed C-C and C-N forming reactions will be discussed. The discovery process will also be detailed, including how a rational, mechanism-guided approach can act in synergy with high throughput experimentation techniques.




Stephen Newman (University of Ottawa)