READHY · Reactivity of dinitrogen and hydrocarbons for C–N bond formation

The activation and functionalization of dinitrogen under mild conditions remains one of the major challenges of contemporary chemistry. Despite being the most abundant form of nitrogen, the strength of its triple bond renders it highly unreactive. Thus very few and not yet efficient systems mediate its functionalization.This proposal entitled READHY (REActivity of Dinitrogen and HYdrocarbons for C-N bond formation) aims to achieve the catalytic formation of C-N bonds from dinitrogen and inactivated hydrocarbons by iron catalysts stabilized by novel bifunctional diketiminate ligands. The project is very ambitious both synthetically and conceptually, but it builds on solid preliminary work and the expertise of the host groups.This original MSCA project will offer cutting-edge science on the road to fulfil the long-standing goal of efficient dinitrogen functionalization for the synthesis of N-containing organic molecules, with long-term technological, economic and societal benefits.READHY will be developed by the candidate at Yale University (United Stated, outgoing phase) and the University of Seville (Spain, incoming phase) under the supervision of Prof. P. L. Holland and Dr J. Campos, respectively. The project combines ligand design, advanced organometallic studies, and important applications in dinitrogen chemistry. Moreover, the dynamism of the host groups and the training plan offer ideal conditions for the researcher to enhance its potential towards the start of her independent career.