We conduct cutting-edge research in the field of synthetic organic chemistry at the University of York, UK.

Our interests are:

​(i) The development of adventurous new strategies for the total synthesis of biologically active natural products in as few steps as possible from simple, readily available starting materials. 

​(ii) The development of new enantioselective cyclisation methodologies for use in drug discovery. We are particularly focused on new strategies the synthesis of cyclic and spirocyclic amines and ethers.

​(iii) Investigations into the origins of life. We are fascinated by the prebiotic formation of carbohydrates, lipids and inorganic phosphate and ultimately in the development of a living protocell.