Asymmetric catalysis - the art of accelerating and enabling reactions that give chiral molecules
Contact Information
Email Address
allegra.franchino@durham.ac.ukWebsite
https://www.franchinolab.comBiography
2025 Associate Professor, Durham University
2022 Assistant Professor, Durham University
2021 Postdoc, ETH Zurich
2018 MSCA COFUND fellow, ICIQ Tarragona
2017 PhD, Oxford University
2013 MSc in Chemistry, Università degli Studi di Milano
2012 Erasmus, RWTH Aachen
Research
Project Title
ChloroCat - Unlocking metal-chloride bonds for data-driven stereoselective catalysisProject Summary
My FLF pioneers a new general modality to assemble added-value molecules with precise shapes, decreasing the time and cost of synthesis of medicines, agrochemicals, fine chemicals and materials. I lead world-class research on stereoselective catalysis, working closely with data scientists and industry.
Catalysis underpins the manufacturing of 90% of products for our developed world. My team devises systems to enable new catalytic reactions to happen, or render the existing ones more selective, thus contributing to a more sustainable use of natural resources. We have pioneered the design of new metal catalysts and studied their mode of action. I’d love to connect with students, researchers and companies passionate about improving catalysis.
Research Interests
ChemistryI'm passionate about....
Research Councils
EPSRCRelevance to UN Sustainable Development Goals
9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Generating employment and income through innovation,2. Responsible Consumption and Production: Reversing current consumption trends and promoting a more sustainable future,
2. Zero Hunger: Providing food and humanitarian relief, establishing sustainable food production,
3. Good Health and Wellbeing: Better, more accessible health systems to increase life-expectancy