CATALYSIS WITH EARTH-ABUNDANT METALS

We are interested in first-row transition metal complexes with unusual structures and electronic configurations. Transition metals like iron or cobalt are attractive Earth-abundant alternatives to precious metal catalyst that are more commonly used in catalytic processes. On the one hand, their complex electronic structures present a barrier to understanding and controlling their reactivity. On the other hand, these unique electronic structures may offer new pathways to unique catalytic transformations. Our work aims to address both aspects.