Project Grant 2554369

The National Science Foundation Division of Chemistry awarded the Trustees of Boston College $650,000 on August 1, 2026, for advancing metalloradical catalysis through new modes of homolytic activation under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program.

Dr. Peter Zhang will develop new catalytic methods to control radical chemical reactions using specially designed cobalt catalysts. The work focuses on designing and synthesizing D₂-symmetric chiral amidoporphyrin ligands to support Co(II) metalloradical catalysts capable of activating diazirines, (bromodifluoromethyl)trimethylsilane, dioxazolones, and bromamine-T. These systems will be investigated for stereoselective radical transformations involving C–H alkylation, difluoromethylation, aziridination, and C–H amination through key α-Co(III)-alkyl, α-Co(III)-difluoromethyl, and α-Co(III)-aminyl radical intermediates. Experimental and computational studies will advance fundamental understanding of synthetic chemistry by defining underlying mechanisms, identifying origins of reactivity and selectivity, and guiding catalyst design. The research will support advanced manufacturing by enabling improved methods for making high-value chemicals, materials, and potential medicines.

The project includes research training for undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral researchers and outreach activities for K–12 teachers and students through chemistry-based educational materials and laboratory demonstrations to broaden participation in STEM.

Performance takes place in Chestnut Hill, Newton, Massachusetts over the period August 1, 2026 through July 31, 2029. No sub-awards are planned.