About Stewart Research Group
The Stewart Research Group at the University of Western Australia (UWA) is at the forefront of cutting-edge research in transition metal catalysis, natural product synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and electrochemistry. Led by Dr. Scott, the group focuses on developing innovative methodologies for complex molecule construction, leveraging the power of metal-catalyzed transformations to create novel compounds with potential applications in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and sustainable chemistry.
With a strong emphasis on synthetic strategy and mechanistic understanding, the group explores the reactivity of transition metals to design efficient catalytic systems that drive the synthesis of bioactive molecules. Additionally, the group's expertise in electrochemistry allows for the exploration of redox-active processes to expand the toolkit of modern organic synthesis.
Through a multidisciplinary approach, the Stewart Research Group is pushing the boundaries of synthetic chemistry, with applications spanning from drug development to green chemistry. Their research not only advances fundamental knowledge but also has real-world implications in healthcare and sustainable chemical manufacturing.
Research Themes
Catalysis and Methodology
Catalysis and Methodology
Catalysis and Methodology
This area of our research is mainly focused on the highly efficient and selective C-C, C-N and C-S bond formation reactions. In particular, we are interested in cross-coupling transformations using nickel, palladium and rhodium catalysts. We are in the early stages of developing electrocatalytic methods employing nickel catalysis, for C-H activation/functionalisation.
Organic Synthesis
Catalysis and Methodology
Catalysis and Methodology
Several challenges remain for organic synthesis today in order to make the agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and organo-materials of the future in a sustainable manner. The group is examining novel domino reactions to prepare N-heterocycles including exploring natural product targets with synthetic efficiency in mind.
Medicinal Chemistry
Catalysis and Methodology
Medicinal Chemistry
The group has prepared both anti-bacterial and anti-cancer natural products for development of new chemical entities for potential therapeutics In the last 10 years we have, with The Harry Perkins Institute, made modifications to thalidomide to improve its immunomodulatory properties and effectiveness in arresting liver cancer cell proliferation.