Novel Synthetic Methods in Photochemistry and Photocatalysis

The Department of Chemistry is pleased to welcome Professor Daniele Leonori from RWTH Aachen University as a guest speaker for this Organic Syntheses Lecture.

Abstract: In this presentation I will highlight recent work from my group focused on the use of photochemistry and photocatalysis to aid the synthesis of high-value molecules. The presentation will focus on: Boryl radical reactivity. Amine-ligated boryl radicals are highly reactive open-shell intermediates with significant potential for the synthesis of borylated materials. In this presentation, I will highlight the use of these species for the C(sp2)–H borylation of azines (e.g., pyridine, quinoline) at positions that are inaccessible via conventional C–H activation methods. [1] Additionally, I will discuss their reactivity with alkenes to form sp3-hybridized materials.[2] These unique reactivities have led to the development of novel, stable borylated materials with a strong capacity to participate in Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reactions. Furthermore, I will present our recent work demonstrating the ability of amineligated boryl radicals to activate organic halides via halogen-atom transfer (XAT), and how this strategy can be integrated with nickel and copper catalysis for broader couplings involving aryl halides, aryl boronic acids, and amides.[3] Photoexcited nitroarenes. Nitroaromatics are widely available feedstocks that are routinely used for the preparation of anilines upon reduction. I will present our most recent work that demonstrates how these species can be used, upon blue light irradiation, to promote the ozonolysis-style cleave of olefins[4] and also allow preparation of complex and highly functionalised saturated heterocycles.[5] Furthermore, I will present our recent work where modulation of the excited configuration of these species has enabled the currently elusive ozonolysis of aromatics in the presence of olefins.
Reference 
[1]Nature 2021, 595, 577.
[2]J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2024, 146, 24042.
[3]Nat. Synth. 2024, asap. & J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2024, 146, 22423.
[4]Nature 2022, 610, 81.
[5]Nat. Chem. 2024, 16, 771 & J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 150, 27810.

Bio: Daniele obtained his PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of Sheffield (UK), and did postdocs with Magnus Rueping and Peter Seeberger. He then joined the group of Prof. Varinder K. Aggarwal (University of Bristol) as a Research Officer. Daniele began his independent academic career at the University of Manchester in 2014 as a Lecturer, was promoted to Reader in 2018, and to Professor in 2020. In 2022, he was appointed W3 Professor and Chair of Organic Chemistry at RWTH Aachen University. Research in the Leonori group focuses on the development of novel synthetic methodologies based on radical and photochemical strategies.

About the Organic Syntheses Lecture: Organic Syntheses is a nonprofit scientific organization and journal dedicated to advancing the practice of synthetic organic chemistry by publishing detailed, reliable, and rigorously verified experimental procedures for the preparation of organic compounds. Since 1921, its mission has been to provide the chemistry community with reproducible methods that are independently checked in the laboratory of a member of the Board of Editors, ensuring a uniquely high standard of accuracy, transparency, and practical utility. 

Beyond its publication activities, Organic Syntheses, Inc. supports research and education in organic chemistry through a range of philanthropic initiatives, including lectureships, workshops, and grants to Primarily Undergraduate Institutions. The Organic Syntheses Lectureship Series at the University of Toronto is made possible through this support, bringing leading researchers to campus and fostering the exchange of ideas that inspire and train the next generation of synthetic chemists.

Info: This colloquium, hosted by Professor Sophie Rousseaux, will take place in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and online attendance. 
Zoom Meeting Link: https://uoft.me/Leonori2026
Zoom Meeting ID: 876 4409 4555
Passcode: Colloq2526

If you are a student at UTM and UTSC and would be interested in attending this colloquium in person (travel expenses covered) and meeting our invited speaker, please send your request to chem.reception@utoronto.ca.

All are encouraged to attend!