CAREER: Alternating Copolymerization of Aziridines and Carbon Monoxide

Lehigh University, Bethlehem PA

Investigators

Abstract

Dr. Li Jia, Department of Chemistry, Lehigh University, is supported by the Inorganic, Bioinorganic and Organometallic Chemistry program of the Division of Chemistry, National Science Foundation, for his work under a CAREER Award to advance the design and development of a new class of homogeneous catalytic reactions as an economically attractive route for the synthesis of poly-beta-peptides. This new chemistry involves the alternating copolymerizations of aziridines and carbon monoxide with cobalt complexes as catalysts. This research is coupled with an educational objective to foster creative chemistry problem-solving in students to prepare them to deal with arising problems in the chemical industry. An inquiry-based laboratory course will be used to teach students the intellectual process of creative problem solving. Industrial speakers will be invited to give seminars at a mini-symposium on "Problem-Solving in the Chemical Industry". Close industrial partnership to enrich students' educational experiences and to facilitate technological innovation is a hallmark of the program.