The Sceptical Chymist | Reactions: Michael Young

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MichaelCYoung-01Michael Young is in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Toledo and works in the areas of supramolecular and organometallic chemistry.

1. What made you want to be a chemist?

I love the idea of creating new things, and when I discovered synthetic chemistry I couldn’t help but turn my love of doodling ideas into drawing (and later developing) new molecules.

2. If you weren’t a chemist and could do any other job, what would it be and why?

I’d probably be a composer or a chef. Basically something where I can create new things that improve the lives of others.

3. What are you working on now, and where do you hope it will lead?

My group is currently working on new strategies to use supramolecular principles for improving regioselectivity and activity in organometallic chemistry. The hope is that this will provide exciting opportunities for synthetic chemists to access new synthetic space, and maybe even develop some functional therapeutics.

4. Which historical figure would you most like to have dinner with — and why?

Alexander Borodin. His ability to be both a successful chemist and musician has always been inspirational to me.

5. When was the last time you did an experiment in the lab — and what was it?

Earlier today I set up an iron-catalyzed reduction of an aromatic amine. Prior to that I had run a Rosenmund von Braun reaction, as well as an amine C–H functionalization reaction that we’re currently developing.

6. If exiled on a desert island, what one book and one music album would you take with you?

I would take Brave New World by Aldous Huxley to read, and Get Acoustic by The Megas to listen to.

7. Which chemist would you like to see interviewed on Reactions — and why?

Stephen Buchwald everyone I know who has met him describes him as one of the most amicable chemists they’ve ever met, and his chemistry is intellectually stimulating. Also, I’d like to see what new comments he has about his cats, although that might require an eighth question.

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