Name: Saeed Raoufmoghaddam, PhD at Leiden University
Working on CatchBio project: Development of (homogenous) catalysts for the selective conversion of LA to caprolactam
Project leader: Prof. Dr E. Bouwman & Prof. Dr E. Drent
Cluster: Bulk
Cluster: Bulk
Short CV
- Was born in Lahijan (north of Iran) and raised in Tehran, Iran.
- Studied B.Sc. of applied chemistry in Guilan University, Rasht, Iran; and M.Sc. in organic chemistry under supervision of prof. Dr. M. Ghandi in University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
- Studying on CatchBio project as PhD in Leiden University
Describe the project shortly in your own words?
It is proposed to develop novel catalytic chemistry to convert the cellulose-derived feedstock levulinic acid into bulk chemicals. Levulinic acid can be converted into important polymer precursors, i.e. adipic acid, 1,6-diaminohexane and caprolactam. The ultimate goal is to develop catalytic processes in which the desired products are made in the smallest possible number of highly atom-efficient steps with high yields. The proposed chemistry thus could have considerable impact in the arena of nylon fibers.
What is the biggest challenge, or what fascinates you the most in this research project?
The biggest challenge would be finding out shortened route for such a cascade chemistry reaction quantitatively followed by reasonable atom efficiency and remarkable TON with respect to industries. Discovering new, facile and efficient way for the challenging reaction fascinates me mostly to continue the way.
What is your future career ambition?
I’d like to be in scientific research which is quiet pleasurable.
How do you like to spend your time when not working on your research?
Reading books, listening music, cycling and travelling.