Research in the Herzon group encompasses the disciplines of natural products synthesis and synthetic methods development. In the former area, we are working to develop efficient, flexible syntheses of complex natural products. Our synthetic routes will present challenges to the capabilities of the field and, in the search for solutions, force an extension of its current boundaries. A prudent, thoughtful approach to target selection is undertaken so that the success of these investigations may potentially serve a broader cause as well. For example, our efforts may provide synthetic material for the study and treatment of human diseases, or alternatively, facilitate investigation of the structure and function of otherwise inaccessible molecules. Thus, the syntheses we develop may be incorporated into larger interdisciplinary programs, however a passion for complex molecule synthesis is what drives us and this forms the core of our program.

In the area of synthetic methods, we seek to identify and reduce to practice essential transformations that are currently not feasible, or only of limited scope. In searching for solutions to these problems we will make use of any tools available to us. Thus, our investigations might lead us to explore the chemistry of novel organic and inorganic reagents, and organometallic complexes, and will be complemented by mechanistic studies, where appropriate. The primary goal of these investigations is the development of practical synthetic methods of broad utility.

RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES:
For Postdoctoral Research inquiries, please submit a CV, a research/career summary, copies of scholarly publications and at least 2 letters of recommendation to Seth Herzon.
If you are considering Graduate study at Yale, feel free to contact Seth or his lab members. More information can be found at Yale Department of Chemistry.
Undergraduate students are encouraged to contact Seth regarding lab research opportunities. Depending on your background, you may be paired with a senior student or work independently. A commitment of one academic year is preferred.
All levels of candidates should have a strong interest in multi-step synthesis, synthetic methods development, or organometallic chemistry.