529-0243-01L  Transition Metal Catalysis: From Mechanisms to Applications

SemesterAutumn Semester 2023
LecturersB. Morandi
Periodicityyearly recurring course
Language of instructionEnglish


AbstractDetailed discussion of selected modern transition metal catalyzed reactions from a synthetic and mechanistic viewpoint
Learning objectiveUnderstanding and critical evaluation of current research in transition metal catalysis. Design of mechanistic experiments to elucidate reaction mechanisms. Synthetic relevance of transition metal catalysis. Students will also learn about writing an original research proposal during a workshop.
ContentDetailed discussion of selected modern transition metal catalyzed reactions from a synthetic and mechanistic viewpoint. Synthetic applications of these reactions. Introduction and application of tools for the elucidation of mechanisms. Selected examples of topics include: C-H activation, C-O activation, C-C activation, redox active ligands, main group redox catalysis, bimetallic catalysis.
Lecture notesLecture slides will be provided online. A Handout summarizing important concepts in organometallic and physical organic chemistry will also be provided. Useful references and handouts will also be provided during the workshop.

Slides will be uploaded 1-2 days before each lecture on http://morandi.ethz.ch/education.html
LiteraturePrimary literature and review articles will be cited during the course.

The following textbooks can provide useful support for the course:

- Anslyn and Dougherty, Modern Physical Organic Chemistry, 1st Ed., University Science Books.
- Crabtree R., The Organometallic Chemistry of the Transition Metals, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
- Hartwig J., Organotransition Metal Chemistry: From Bonding to Catalysis, University Science Books.
- J. P. Collman, L. S. Hegedus, J. R. Norton, R. G. Finke, Principles and Applications of Organotransition Metal Chemistry.
Prerequisites / NoticeRequired level: Courses in organic and physical chemistry (kinetics in particular) of the first and second year as well as ACI and III
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityassessed
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed