01
Non-Covalent Interactions-Based Catalysis
Our research focuses on computational strategies for catalyst design, with a particular emphasis on asymmetric catalysis. While steric effects have traditionally been regarded as the primary factor in controlling enantioselectivity, recent studies highlight the critical role of non-covalent interactions (NCIs) in modulating selectivity when embedded within chiral scaffolds. Our work focuses on exploring halogen, chalcogen, and pnicogen interactions, in close collaboration with experimentalists, to develop new paradigms for achieving enhanced enantioselectivity.
Selected papers
- Neutral chiral bidentate tellurium-triazoles for enantioselective non-covalent chalcogen-bonding catalysis Nat. Commun., 2026
- Halogen-Bond-Based Organocatalysis Unveiled: Computational Design and Mechanistic Insights ACS Catal., 2023
- Revisiting ion-pair interactions in phase transfer catalysis: from ionic compounds to real catalyst systems Dalton Trans., 2024
02
Computational Strategies for Catalyst Design and Mechanistic Insights
Our research leverages computational methods to study and solve chemical challenges in silico before validating predictions experimentally. We focus on designing catalysts—particularly for organocatalysis—by integrating quantum mechanical (QM) calculations with machine learning (ML). This combined approach enables predictive design, incorporates non-covalent interactions (NCIs) into system descriptions, and provides mechanistic insights into complexation and reactivity. By merging theory with experimental validation, we aim to develop efficient, selective catalysts and uncover the principles driving catalytic processes.
Selected papers
- Catalyst design within asymmetric organocatalysis WIREs Comput. Mol. Sci., 2022
- Efficiency and Suitability when Exploring the Conformational Space of Phase-Transfer Catalysts J. Chem. Inf. Model., 2022
- Theoretical perspectives in organocatalysis Chem. Eur. J., 2022
03
Application of electronic structure theory to chemical reaction pathways and mechanisms
We collaborate closely with experimentalists in a highly integrative approach, incorporating computational studies from the outset of each project. This iterative collaboration ensures continuous information exchange, allowing for real-time refinement of models and experimental strategies. Such synergy not only deepens our understanding of complex reactions but also enhances the predictive power of our simulations, driving the discovery of more effective and sustainable chemical solutions.
Selected papers
- Electroreductive Cleavage of C(sp³)–N Bonds in Saturated N-Carbonyl-Heterocycles J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2026
- Reductive Radical Chain Initiation Through the Thermal Generation of Carbon Dioxide Radical Anion Nat. Synth., 2025
- Oxenoid reactivity enabled by targeted photoactivation of periodate Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2024




