Developing more efficient routes to organoboranes: [BF4] salts as sustainable precursors for borylation chemistry

A PhD studentship is available in the group of Professor Michael Ingleson at the University of Edinburgh, School of Chemistry, for group details see: https://www.ingleson.chem.ed.ac.uk/. This PhD involves collaborations with Professor Stephen Thomas (University of Edinburgh) and Professor Allan Watson (University of St. Andrews) at various points in the project.

Project Summary

Organoboranes are crucial synthetic intermediates widely used in academia and industry, while they are also increasingly important in their own right, including in pharmaceuticals (see: Ganfeborole, Vaniborbactam, Tavaborole). However, C-B bonds are generally synthesised using compounds that are energy intensive to make (e.g., B-B, B-H, B-Br containing precursors). The recent discovery (Nature 2024, 635, 359) that [BF₄]^– salts can be made directly from the ubiquitous mineral CaF₂ (fluorspar) in water using benign/cheap reagents (boric acid) has made [BF₄]^– arguably the most sustainable reactive boron precursor. This project will use [BF₄]^– salts as the entry point to make known and novel borane reagents in-situ for direct use in the synthesis of organoboranes. Furthermore, by using [BF₄]^– salts and simple activators we will develop novel routes to form C-F bonds and BO heterocycles (e.g., analogues of Xeruborbactam).¹ Both of these are important in the pharmaceutical industry. Through this we will address the UK priority goal of “shifting us away from environmentally detrimental industries and processes to more sustainable systems”.

This project is underpinned by proof of principle results and calculations and will allow the successful applicant to develop skills in organic and inorganic synthesis, catalysis, DFT calculations and a range of key characterization techniques (enabled by access to state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Edinburgh).

How to Apply

In the first instance, informal enquiries accompanied by a CV should be e-mailed to:

Professor Michael Ingleson, School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh.

Email: michael.ingleson@ed.ac.uk

The position will remain open until filled.

The start date is usually the beginning of the academic year, for the Chemistry PhD Programme this is Monday 1 September 2025

IMPORTANT

Before Submitting your cover letter and CV, please complete the online School of Chemistry Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Form, entry 2025-26.

The form will automatically generate a unique ‘Response ID number’ that you must include in your cover letter.

Equality and Diversity

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The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment.

For further information, please see our University Initiatives website:

https://equality-diversity.ed.ac.uk/inclusion/family-and-carer