REMOTECAT · Asymmetric organocatalysts for remote functionalization strategies

Research in the area of aminocatalysis moves at breathtaking speed: many catalytic reactions now considered to be “standard issue” by organic chemists were almost unthinkable just 10 years ago. The development of new catalysts often makes it possible to generate previously unattainable compounds, which could have unique physical, chemical or biological properties. But the basic science is as important as the applications: studies of catalytic mechanisms often uncover new modes of chemical reactivity, such as the way polienamines work, forcing us to think different about the way molecules interact and react.The REMOTEcat project is an innovative proposal in the area of asymmetric organocatalysis tutorized by Prof. Jørgensen at the Centre for Cataysis (Aarhus, Denmark). It is scientifically based on a novel mode of activation (tetraenamine catalysis) for the development of new methodologies providing relevant chiral frameworks. The project is aimed at designing organocatalysts for the construction of new stereogenic centres located at even more remote positions from the stereodifferentiating element of the aminocatalyst described up to date. These catalysts will open access to a variety of enantioenriched compounds and will be used in the total synthesis of natural products or bioactive molecules.The successful execution of the REMOTEcat project will allow the applicant to acquire and/or improve his research competences thus strengthening his professional maturity. This is particularly relevant when considering the highly competitive discipline of organocatalysis. New methods are developing rapidly for the synthesis of chiral molecules. As a consequence, acquiring broad research skills is even more crucial to keep up a high quality research level. Therefore, a Marie Curie fellowship held in Prof. Jørgensen`s top international research group in organocatalysis, would be an important step in the direction of establishing his career as an independent researcher in EU.