Total synthesis, a research field that renders the preparation of larger molecular constructs from their structurally simplified progenitor(s) through a series of carefully coordinated synthetic operations, has admirably served the scientific community through its contributions in both fundamental chemical research and in a wide-spectrum of physical and biological applications. Our research activity rests its foundation on complexity-inspired total synthesis, with strong emphasis on the design and orchestration of innovative synthetic strategies by employing modern synthetic technologies based on transition-metal and organo-catalysis. Convergent and yet flexible approach are pursued in order to maximize overall synthetic efficiency, and enable the preparation of rationally designed analogues for chemical-biology investigations. Novel reactivities bestowed by complex molecular architectures are explored in a methodological manner and further applied in the context of target-oriented synthesis.

• Ph.D. Chemistry, University of Cambridge, 2001
• B.Sc. (1st class Hon) Chemistry, University of Auckland, 1998

• Principal Investigator, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, 2005-2011
• Senior Research Chemist, Merck Research Laboratory, Rahway, USA, 2003-2005
• Research Associate, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, USA, 2002-2003
• Research Assistant, Auckland Cancer Society Research Center, New Zealand, 1998