We are interested in the synthesis and reactivity of unique organometallic complexes. Follow the links for a full publications list and an outline of our research areas.
Highlights:
The First Be–Be Bond
The lightest elements, like beryllium, form the basis for our models of chemical bonding. We synthesised the first example of a stable complex with a Be–Be bond, diberyllocene, which had been the subject of numerous theoretical studies over the preceding five decades.
Comparing Beryllium and Boron
Beryllium and boron are "neighbours" in the Periodic Table. We synthesised a complex with a polarised Be–Be bond, revealing the similarities between diberyllanes and diborane(4) derivatives for the first time. This has implications for our appreciation of periodic trends.
The First Hexavalent Nickel Complex
High valent nickel complexes are key intermediates in nickel-catalysed carbon-carbon cross-couplings and carbon-hydrogen bond functionalisations, as well as in the biochemical activity of metalloenzymes. We synthesised the first hexa-valent nickel complex. Before this, the tetra-valent state was the highest known for this transition metal.