Jacob Burman
Major: Chemistry
Minor: Mathematics
Research Mentor: Dr. Jason Kingsbury
What was the focus of your research?
The goal of my project is to optimize the Diazoalkane-Carbonyl Homologation. The diazo compounds have donor-acceptor properties that allow for formal carbon insertion into C-C or C-H bonds.
These insertions are synthetically useful because many biologically active compounds can be created easier with such a unique transformation. Once optimization occurs, a full-large scale synthesis and use of the diazo compounds will be exhibited for its practicality in industrial applications.
Why is this research important?
Optimization of this reaction can lead to further breakthroughs down the road in synthesis and natural product development.
Molecules isolated in nature can exhibit biological activity and with a novel reaction such as the formal carbon insertion can help develop easier ways to synthesize existing drug targets. Even the production of a probe for mitochondrial permeability conditions is possible once the process is perfected.
I regularly use characterization techniques learned in my undergraduate classes everyday to confirm results in correct structure and yields of various products created.
How was your research experience?
Working this summer with Dr. Kingsbury was eye-opening to say the least. Every day was an adventure in learning all the advanced techniques that professional chemists use to expertly manipulate materials. I’ve gained so much experience, but the most valuable thing for me is knowing that I still have so much to learn.
What’s next?
After graduation, I hope to enter a Ph.D. program in synthetic organic chemistry and am considering a future in either academia or industry.
