Christina White (U Illinois)

Title: “Intermolecular C—H Oxidations for Late-Stage Functionalizations.” Prof. M. Christina White

The atomistic transformation of C—H to C—O, C—N, and C—C changes the physical properties of small molecules, often leading to novel or enhanced functions. The discovery and development of a series of directing group-free C(sp3)–H functionalization reactions previously considered not possible outside enzymatic catalysis will be discussed. Delineation of electronic, steric, and stereoelectronic rules to predict their site-selectivity and strategic applications of the reactions to streamline synthesis and diversification of small molecules has collectively established the highly impactful area of late-stage functionalization