# CAS: Copper Catalyzed sp3 C-H Functionalization

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Michigan State University (MI) · $570,000

## Abstract

With the support of the Chemical Catalysis Program of the Division of Chemistry, Professor Timothy H. Warren of the Department of Chemistry at Michigan State University is studying how to add function to molecules through normally unreactive carbon-hydrogen (C–H) bonds using copper-based catalysts. This research aims to create more efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective ways to build important chemical structures, such as those found in medicines and materials. By developing new methods to modify the most abundant types of carbon-hydrogen bonds in organic molecules, this project will help scientists streamline the synthesis of complex molecules and explore new chemical space. The broader impacts of the work include hands-on training for high school students, undergraduates, and graduate students enhanced through collaborations with industrial and academic partners. Outreach activities that include science festivals and mentorship programs will help inspire the next generation of scientists.

This project will establish new catalytic protocols to transform strong, unreactive sp3 carbon-hydrogen bonds in molecules and materials to carbon-nitrogen, carbon-oxygen, carbon-sulfur, and carbon-carbon bonds. These C–H functionalization methods provide access to areas of chemical space that are difficult to reach using traditional synthetic approaches. Copper catalyzed radical relay approaches will enable new synthetic methods for C-H arylation, alkylation, and vinyl

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2452839
- **Awardee organization:** Michigan State University (MI)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** R28EKN92ZTZ9
- **PI:** Timothy H Warren
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** CAS-Critical Aspects of Sustainability
- **Estimated total:** $570,000
- **Funds obligated:** $570,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 05/31/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2452839

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2452839, CAS: Copper Catalyzed sp3 C-H Functionalization. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-09 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2452839. Licensed CC0.

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