The aim of the module is to introduce students to the main aspects of asymmetric catalysis and its application in synthetic organic chemistry. Students will gain:
• An understanding of the importance of asymmetric catalysis.
• An understanding of the fundamental principles and mechanisms of asymmetric catalysis.
• An understanding of the applications of asymmetric catalysis in fine chemicals and pharmaceutical synthesis.
• An opportunity to consider new developments in the field, especially those that introduce new concepts and/or underpin new environmentally benign processes.

(LO1) An understanding of the importance of asymmetric catalysis in chemical synthesis.

(LO2) An understanding of the fundamental principles and mechanisms of asymmetric catalysis.

(LO3) A grasp of the various aspects of asymmetric catalysis ranging from metal-catalysed redox reactions through kinetic resolution to oranocatalytic C-C bond formation.

(LO4) An understanding of the applications of asymmetric catalysis in fine chemicals and pharmaceutical synthesis.

(LO5) An ability to evaluate the experimental evidence for and against a proposed mechanism for an asymmetric catalytic reaction

(LO6) An ability to propose a rational synthetic pathway for a specific chiral molecule

(LO7) An ability to propose a likely mechanism for a new asymmetric catalytic reaction.

(LO8) An opportunity to consider new developments in the field, especially those that feature new concepts and/or underpin new environmentally benign processes.

(S1) Students will develop their chemistry-related cognitive abilities and skills, ie abilities and skills relating to intellectual tasks, including problem-solving as required by the Chemistry subject benchmark statement. In particular, at master's level, they will gain the ability to adapt and apply methodology to the solution of unfamiliar problems.

Lectures. 15 x 1 hr in-person lectures.

Coursework. This will consist of a set of problems of relevance to the lectures.
The problems are provided mid semester to be handed in after 5 working days. Feedback will be provided.

Workshops. The lectures are supported by 3 x 1 hr in-person workshops to review the important concepts that have been introduced and discuss/answer any questions students raise.

*Lectures: 15 hr
*Workshops: 3 hr

1. Introduction to asymmetric catalysis

2. Asymmetric hydrogenation
2.1. Hydrogenation of olefins
2.2. Hydrogenation of carbonyls
2.3. Transfer hydrogenation of carbonyls

3. Asymmetric oxidation
3.1. Epoxidation of allyic alcohols
3.2. Epoxidation of olefins
3.3. Dihydroxylation of olefins

4. Asymmetric C-C bond formation
4.1. Allylic alkylation
4.2. Heck reaction
4.3. Cycloaddition

5. Asymmetric organocatalysis

6. Kinetic resolution

7. Dynamic kinetic resolution