Our program is broadly based on modern organic chemistry (organic synthesis, organometallic chemistry, asymmetric catalysis, natural product total synthesis, bioorganic chemistry). We are developing synthetic tools (reactions and reagents) and networks of reactions (synthetic strategies) for efficient and selective chemical synthesis. In particular, we focus on the development of chemical transformations that can resolve longstanding synthetic problems and offer new mechanistic vistas for future development in organic synthesis. Our investigations are also concerned with the synthesis of natural products with complex molecular architecture and significant biological activities. Our goal is to establish synthetic roadmaps to the target molecules, to evolve new synthesis logics, and to uncover the molecular bases for the peculiar properties of these compounds.

1. New Reaction Development
The research in this area involves discovering, understanding, and exploiting new catalyst systems that effect bond formation with control of chemo-, regio- and stereoselectivities. Our approach is to identify novel reactivities and mechanistic motifs of transition metal-mediated processes to develop conceptually new reactions of broad synthetic utility. Specific topics include the development of stereoselective carbon-heteroatom bond-forming reactions for the asymmetric synthesis of chiral ethers and amines, and new cyclization reactions using alkynes via transition metal vinylidene mediated catalysis.

2. Total Synthesis of Natural Products
Target molecules in our lab include a variety of natural products possessing interesting structural, biological, and physical properties. In each project, we probe the feasibility of unprecedented reactions or untested networks of reactions in complex structural and functional settings. By undertaking these chemical synthesis investigations, we aim to develop innovative new chemistry that will be of great utility in broader contexts. Thus, our endeavor will not only advance synthetic science but also foster opportunities for further biomedical explorations utilizing these molecular agents.

• Ph.D. Chemistry, Stanford University, California, USA, 1998
• BS/MS. Chemistry, Seoul National University 1990

• Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Korea , 2008-Present
• Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, New Jersey, USA, 2001-2008
• US Army Cancer Research Postdoctoral Fellow, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA, 1999-2001
• Teaching and Research Assistant, Institute for Basic Research, 1991-1992