Professor AJ Boydston
Professor AJ Boydston
Department of Chemistry
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Printable Absctract
Metal-Free Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Our group integrates fundamental and applied research within the scope of soft materials. In this seminar, we will discuss a new mechanism for ring-opening metathesis polymerization that is now a centerpiece of our program. The approach leverages photoredox catalysis to allow for organic initiators, in contrast to widely used metal- alkylidene initiators. Studies on our mechanistic hypothesis have yielded an exciting interplay of challenges and opportunities, often with one disguised as the other. We will share our findings that include methods for stereocontrol, chain transfer, and functional group compatibility, as well as our adventures into the applied and commercial sectors.
AJ Boydston
Dr. Boydston began studying chemistry as an undergraduate at the University of Oregon under the guidance of Professor Michael M. Haley. After completing BS and MS degrees, he began doctoral research at the University of Texas at Austin. In 2005, Dr. Boydston joined the group of Professor Christopher W. Bielawski and was co-advised by Professor C. Grant Willson. Dr. Boydston completed his thesis research focused on the synthesis and applications of annulated bis(imidazolium) chromophores in 2007. After graduating, he moved to Pasadena, California to take an NIH postdoctoral position at the California Institute of Technology. There, he worked under the mentorship of Professor Robert H. Grubbs to develop new catalysts and methods for the synthesis and characterization of functionalized cyclic polymers. He then began as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Washington in 2010 and was promoted to Associate Professor with tenure in 2016. In August 2018, he moved to the Department of Chemistry at the University of Wisconsin, Madison as the inaugural Yamamoto Family Professor of Chemistry. His research group focuses on photoredox catalysis, polymer synthesis, mechanochemical transduction, triggered depolymerizations, polymers for therapeutic applications, and additive manufacturing (3D printing). His research and teaching efforts have been recognized through the NSF CAREER Award, Army Research Office Young Investigator Award, Cottrell Scholar Award, Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Award, and University of Washington Distinguished Teaching Award.
Hosted by Professor Jessica Lamb