In our experimental work, synthetic organic chemistry forms the basis for studies in supramolecular chemistry and organocatalysis. Our main focus is on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of halogenated organic compounds.

For the synthesis of our target molecules, we use established procedures or develop new synthetic approaches when necessary. All compounds are characterized by NMR, IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analyses.

In our organocatalysis studies, benchmark reactions are monitored by spectroscopic methods, typically NMR. Competition and reference experiments are often conducted to determine which part of the catalyst candidate is responsible for the reactivity. Catalysts are then optimized for highest activity, or in the case of chiral compounds, highest enantioselectivity.

Our supramolecular investigations concern the characterization (and optimization) of non-covalently bound adducts in the solid phase and in solution. We routinely apply X-ray structural analyses to study the binding mode of our halogen-based Lewis acids to various Lewis bases. The binding strength of these adducts in solution is determined by NMR titrations or calorimetric measurements. For the latter, we employ isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). These thermodynamic measurements form the basis for a rational optimization of our halogen-bond donors.

All our experimental projects are usually accompanied by quantum chemical calculations. Semi-empirical methods are used to quickly identify suitable catalyst candidates, while DFT calculations serve to determine the binding strength of non-covalent adducts and to model the mode of action of catalysts on the transition state of benchmark reactions.

If you are interested to join our group, please contact Prof. Huber via email. Further details are given in submenu "Research/Topics"