William Ogilvie

Biography

Our group is interested in asymmetric catalysis by organic molecules. We have developed a new class of hydrazide-based catalyst that catalyzes Diels-Alder ring closure in aqueous media. These compounds catalyze a variety of asymmetric transformations with high yields. We are working to expand and explore the chemistry of these novel and highly effective organo-catalysts. We are also applying high throughput methods to the discovery of novel catalytic entities. To more rapidly identify interesting compounds we are developing methods to rapidly identify enantioselective processes that can be applied to high throughput screening. We are using this technology to develop novel catalysts and reactions.