# CAREER: Leveraging Early Oxophilic Transition Metals for Organic Synthesis

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Baylor University (TX) · $660,262

## Abstract

With the support of the Chemical Synthesis Program in the Division of Chemistry, Professor Liela Romero of Baylor University is developing new strategies for chemical synthesis using early transition metal catalysts. The unique properties of these metal complexes are selectively transforming oxygen-containing molecules into valuable chemical building blocks through uncommon, highly selective interconversions. These activities are improving synthetic efficiency with applications across various industries. This program is also providing graduate students with training in synthetic chemistry and catalysis, while also creating new opportunities to incorporate concepts of catalysis into undergraduate curriculum. Further, Professor Romero is working to increase participation in hands-on chemical education through (1) organizing an instrumentation workshop for students and faculty at small colleges and universities in the region, and (2) developing and sharing educational resources to help educators better support students within the chemistry community.

While decades of literature on zirconium hydrides have established their usefulness in organic synthesis, much of this work is stoichiometric in metal and carried out through multi-stage processes. Moreover, access to these complexes using conventional methods can require the use of aggressive reductants or harsh conditions. The Romero group is developing new strategies to generate and turnover zirconium hydride catalysts for red

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2440697
- **Awardee organization:** Baylor University (TX)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** C6T9BYG5EYX5
- **PI:** Liela Romero
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** Advanced Manufacturing, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
- **Estimated total:** $660,262
- **Funds obligated:** $509,210
- **Transaction type:** Continuing Grant
- **Period:** 06/01/2025 → 05/31/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2440697

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2440697, CAREER: Leveraging Early Oxophilic Transition Metals for Organic Synthesis. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2440697. Licensed CC0.

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