Research Introduction

Chirik Group Research
Thank you for your interest in our research group. We are a team of graduate, undergraduate and postdoctoral research associates working in the general area of synthetic transition metal chemistry. In general our group works on long-standing problems in chemical synthesis. In one project, we are studying “low-valent” early transition compounds (Ti, Zr, Hf, Nb) for the activation and functionalization of atmospheric nitrogen. For the past century, synthetic chemists have sought to find mild methods for the conversion of N2 into more value-added products such as ammonia, amino acids and heterocycles. More details on this chemistry can be found by clicking this link.
In a second area, we are exploring the catalytic chemistry of well-defined iron compounds. More than any time in history, chemical synthesis is dependent on transition metal catalyzed reactions for the construction of carbon-element (element = H, C, Si, etc) bonds, often in a stereoselective manner. Traditionally, these catalysts are based on expensive and toxic heavy transition metals. We are interesting in discovering more inexpensive and environmentally responsible iron compounds for these transformations as well as finding new applications of metals in synthesis. More information about this project can be found here.