Our research is focused on the total synthesis of architecturally complex natural products. We believe that the structures of such compounds can serve as inspiration for the invention of new organic reactions and processes. Thus, we carefully select our synthetic targets with the development of novel chemistry as our primary objective. Some of our current targets are shown below. In addition, we strive for efficiency and flexibility in our syntheses.

The new reactions that we develop in the course of synthesizing a natural product are fully investigated with respect to scope and mechanism. It is our aim to develop widely applicable processes that deliver complex products from simple starting materials in a minimum number of steps. We also believe that it is important to understand how these processes operate.

In cases where our targets possess significant biological activity, we use our synthetic routes to these molecules to produce structural analogues. This allows us to elucidate the modes of action of these compounds, often in collaboration with biological and biochemical research groups.

Students in our group receive rigorous training in the techniques of organic synthesis. In addition to the laboratory and spectroscopic methods specific to the discipline, they learn the more general, widely applicable skills of strategic planning and problem solving. Furthermore, in the course of presenting their research in verbal and written formats, they acquire valuable communications skills.