Research

Mechanism-Guided Organic Electrochemistry

In the Brezny lab, we use electrochemistry to selectively add and remove electrons from organic molecules. This approach enables challenging redox reactions, the construction of complex molecules, and the conversion of simple building blocks into value-added chemicals. Importantly, electrochemical methods provide many benefits over traditional reagent-based redox reactions, such as increased functional group tolerance, milder conditions, fewer safety concerns, and greater sustainability. Our research uses soluble molecular electrocatalysts and electron-proton transfer mediators to control electrocatalytic reactions. Furthermore, by exploring  the mechanisms of these reactions, we use our insight and understanding to improve the systems and develop new methods for organic redox chemistry.