Development of novel bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCP) bioisosteres from bench stable [1.1.1]propellane precursors (Ref: CM/MK-SF1/2026)

About the Project

Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanes (BCPs) are an exciting class of strained, sp3 rich carbon. While their initial use was in the materials sector, recent impact has been in medicinal chemistry, drug development and the agrochemical sector. Their appeal is due to a unique 3-D structure, a direct consequence of its high sp3 carbon content, and has led to its use as a bioisosteres for the tert-butyl group, internal alkynes and significantly, mono- and disubstituted arenes.

Their synthesis is accomplished using hetero- or homolytic cleavage and relies on the inherent strain in the central carbon-carbon bond of [1.1.1]propellane. However, the practical isolation and storage of [1.1.1]propellane is very problematic; it is isolated as a solution in ethereal solvents, it must be cryogenically stored, and should be used before its rapid degradation.

In this project we will pioneer a stable crystalline alternatives of [1.1.1]propellane (J. Org. Chem. 2025, 90, 7712). Functionalization will be explored using several nucleophiles, providing orthogonal 1,3-disubstituted[1.1.1]bicyclopentane (BCP) precursors amenable to subsequent cross-coupling reactions (e.g., transition metal and photoredox mediated). This methodology will provide a superior synthetic approach to 1,3-disubstituted BCPs, with far less waste, as well as delivering stable crystalline BCP precursors.

This project will significantly increase the synthetic scope of BCPs compared to current strategies, as well as providing an excellent training platform to the prospective PhD candidate in our new state-of-the-art laboratories here at Loughborough.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:

Dr Marc Kimber M.C.Kimber@lboro.ac.uk

Name of secondary supervisor:

Dr George Weaver https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/chemistry/staff/george-weaver/

Entry requirements:

Applicants should have or expect to achieve at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent international qualification) in chemistry.

English language requirements:

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required:

Yes

Bench fee value:

£2000pa

Closing date of advert:

31st July 2026

Start date:

January 2026, April 2026, July 2026, October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability:

Full-time 3 years

Fee band:

2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)