About The Group

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Jack completed his BSc (Hons.) in the group in 2020 before returning to begin his PhD in 2021, focusing on the design and synthesis of a broad array of bioactive N-heterocycles. This encompasses synthetically derived heterobifunctional molecular probe scaffolds, natural product total synthesis, as well as generating novel bioisosteres – the latter two of which are informed through synthetic methodologies related to the group’s experience in Rh (II)-catalysed denitrogenative transformations. He is currently investigating the potential of strain-release-promoted reactions of bicyclobutanes (BCBs) to generate incredibly diverse, uniquely substituted bicyclic ring scaffolds.

Jack’s honours project focused on synthesising lenalidomide and thalidomide derivatives through Buchwald-Hartwig cross-coupling reactions, screening the compounds against liver cancer cell lines, and additionally investigated a natural product synthesis, co-supervised by Dr. Gavin Flematti.

 Josie completed her BSc (Hons) in the SGS group in 2021. She later returned as a PhD student in 2023, and is currently working on electrochemically assisted, nickel catalysed C–N Aminations and C–H activation reactions for the synthesis of N-heterocycles. Josie’s honours project was focused on the development of synthetic strategies investigating the total synthesis of a natural product, utilising a Rh(II) catalysis reaction developed in the group. 

 Tomohiro is a PhD student visiting SGS group from Okayama University, Japan, for a short research stay. His research focuses on organic electrosynthesis and natural product synthesis, particularly the development of electrochemical reactions for constructing complex molecular frameworks. During his time in the group, he is interested in learning new approaches in synthetic organic chemistry. Outside the lab, he enjoys travelling, exploring new places, and finding good food.