This research focuses on the preparation of beta-lactones by the development of Lewis acid mediated (2+2) cycloaddition chemistry and tandem aldol/lactonization methodology. New transformations of beta-lactones including intramolecular allylsilane additions and ferric chloride mediated tandem debenzylation/transacylation will be probed. The educational plan focuses on the development of a `transition` course for first year graduate students, including minorities, minority outreach to local high schools and development of multimedia presentations for use in the teaching of organic chemistry. With this CAREER award, the Synthetic Organic Program is supporting the research and educational activities of Dr. Daniel Romo of the Department of Chemistry at Texas A&M University. Professor Romo will focus his research effort on the asymmetric synthesis of a class of compounds known as beta-lactones. These compounds serve as useful intermediates in organic synthesis, are utilized as polymerization substrates and the basic structural unit appears in a variety of physiologically active natural products. The educational plan will focus on the development of a `transition` course for educationally disadvantaged first year graduate students and the development of multimedia presentations related to organic chemistry
