N-Arylation and N-Alkylation of Amides via the Merger of Base Metal Catalysis and Photocatalysis

• Applicant: Dr. Jens Mohr
• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: from 2016 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 328341649

Having developed a photosensitised nickel-catalysed C–N coupling of amides with aryl halides under mild conditions that shows broad applicability, the development a decarboxylative C–N coupling of amides with alkyl carboxylic acids is proposed by merging photoredox catalysis with base metal catalysis. This unprecedented transformation constitutes a complementary approach to previously known N-alkylation methods and can be rendered asymmetric by utilising chiral ligands. Finally, the potential of both C–N coupling methods will be showcased in the synthesis of a drug molecule.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor David W. C. MacMillan, Ph.D.