Research Overview:

The AND(Addison N. Desnoyer) Lab at Oregon State University focuses on the rational design and mechanistic study of organometallic and organic frameworks that enable the activation of small molecules central to sustainable energy and catalysis. Our research spans both monometallic and bimetallic systems, exploring reactivity in homogeneous and heterogeneous environments. We aim to understand and control multielectron redox processes critical for the transformation of inert molecules such as N₂, CO₂, and CH₄ into useful chemical intermediates using Earth-abundant, first-row transition metals. Central to our approach is the development of modular ligand scaffolds that provide geometric and electronic precision to tune metal reactivity. By integrating redox-active ligands, secondary coordination sphere effects, and site-specific structural flexibility, we seek to promote selective bond activation pathways that are often inaccessible to conventional catalysts. Our work spans a wide range of transformations, including C–H functionalization, C-F bond activation, and small molecule coupling reactions.The AND Lab combines advanced synthetic chemistry with comprehensive analytical techniques, including multinuclear NMR, UV-Vis, IR, EPR, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, electrochemistry, and magnetic measurements. We complement these experimental approaches with computational studies (DFT) to probe electronic structure and guide catalyst design. Through this integrated strategy, our goal is to develop new molecular platforms that not only deepen fundamental understanding of catalytic mechanisms but also lay the foundation for scalable, sustainable chemical processes.Current research directions include the following projects:

New Bimetallic Complexes for small molecule activation (Rumi)

Bimetallic complexes with well-defined structures are currently limited in number, despite a few examples displaying unprecedented reactivity compared to their monometallic counterparts. This scarcity is particularly pronounced among early and mid-transition metals, despite their pivotal roles in contemporary C–H functionalization catalysis and C–C bond formation. Our research strategy involves the synthesis of innovative and modular binucleating silyl amine ligand scaffolds and the design of robust ligands allowing precise tuning of the bimetallic unit's binding pocket. C–F bonds exhibit exceptional strength, this work will expand the scope of well-defined bimetallic complexes and enhance our understanding of metal-metal interactions, focusing on C(sp_³)–F activation, and exploring their photo redox activity.

A Family of Biomimetic Catalysts for the Selective Oxidation of Lignin (Rylan)

My research focuses on the synthesis of novel organometallic complexes whose functional handles are meant to resemble the active-site of the lignin-degrading enzyme Lignin Peroxidase. Several ligand types are being explored along with their coordination to most of the first-row transition metals. Reactivity studies using these compounds aim to help determine their oxidative selectivity towards various organic substrates and their ultimate use in breaking specific C-O bonds in natural biopolymers.

Bimetallic PAlP Frustrated Lewis Pair Ligands for the Catalytic Transformation of Carbon Oxides (Casey)

β-Diketiminates are among the most explored ligands in organometallic chemistry due to their modular synthesis, unique properties, and strong chelating ability. Despite the abundant research, there are limited bimetallic examples, especially those that have open sites for reactivity. Following phosphine functionalization, these ligands will have their coordination to group 13 elements and subsequently, electron-rich transition metals, explored. The closely held Lewis basic transition metal and Lewis acidic group 13 element will generate electronic frustration, and thus unexplored reactivity. These complexes are proposed to catalytically transform carbon oxides through hydrogenation mechanisms defined by frustrated Lewis pairs.

Bimetallic Biomimetic Borovik Inspired Complexes (Bella)

This research builds upon the initial synthesis of the TADA ligand, created by Sultana Rumi, with a biomimetic spin. These metalloenzyme inspired ligands utilize the small molecule activation similar to cytochrome P450, sMMO & MnCat while incorporating a ligand cavity to enhance stability of the coordination site. These systems are known to catalytically reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) into more stable byproducts, such as H₂O, and cleave C-H bonds.

C-F Bond Functionalization - A 21st Century Pharmaceutical & PFAS Solution (Ifedayo)

Fluorine - this "small but mighty" sized atom with high electronegativity has made a significant contribution to mankind over the years with its unique application ranging from pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, environmental remediation, optical fibers, etc. My research aims to explore the functionalization of the applications above with relevant organic fluorine compounds using modified TADA ligands - a bimetallic catalyst developed by AND researchers.