Hangzhou Normal University, China
Profile
orcid
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Dr. Jian Zhang’s journey into the world of chemistry began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Applied Chemistry from Central South University (1999–2003), where he laid a strong foundation in chemical sciences. He continued his academic development with a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry at Nankai University (2003–2006), a leading institution renowned for its emphasis on innovation in chemistry. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to synthetic organic chemistry culminated in a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) (2009–2013), one of Asia’s premier research universities. This period was pivotal in shaping his research identity, emphasizing precision, complexity, and creativity in organic synthesis.
Professional Endeavors
Prof. Zhang’s career bridges both industrial and academic landscapes. He began as a Research Scientist at WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd. in Shanghai (2006–2009), where he worked on practical applications of organic synthesis, developing drug candidates and fine chemicals. After his doctoral studies, he returned to NTU as a Research Assistant (2013–2014), engaging in postdoctoral research that further honed his expertise. Since 2015, he has served as a Professor at Hangzhou Normal University, where he leads a dynamic research group and contributes to teaching and mentoring the next generation of chemists.
Contributions and Research Focus
Prof. Zhang’s research centers on organometallic catalysis, chelation-assisted C–H functionalization, and stereoselective synthesis of complex organic molecules. His work demonstrates a consistent interest in transforming simple molecular scaffolds into structurally rich targets via innovative catalytic methodologies. Notably, he explores both α- and β-C–H functionalization of aryl alkenes and styrenes, introducing novel strategies in hydroarylation, alkylation, and cyclization reactions using metals like palladium, iridium, and ruthenium. He has also investigated lignin-derived photoinitiators for dental materials, reflecting his commitment to green chemistry and interdisciplinary applications.
Impact and Influence
Between 2023 and 2024, Prof. Zhang co-authored over ten high-impact publications in internationally recognized journals such as Angewandte Chemie International Edition, Organic Chemistry Frontiers, Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry, Synlett, Journal of Dentistry, and Scientific Reports. His recent article in Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2024) on stereoselective polyene synthesis via C–H functionalization represents a significant contribution to the field. Collaborating with experts such as Guofu Zhong and Rui He, he has become an integral part of the growing Asian scientific community shaping the future of synthetic organic chemistry.
Academic Citations & Visibility
Though exact citation metrics are not provided here, Prof. Zhang's recent publications in top-tier journals with high impact factors suggest strong academic visibility and influence. His work is frequently cited in studies involving transition-metal catalysis, photochemistry, and green synthetic methodologies, indicating its relevance and ongoing impact in chemical sciences.
Technical Skills
Prof. Zhang possesses deep expertise in organic synthesis, transition-metal catalysis, and structure-activity relationship (SAR) exploration. His laboratory techniques include spectroscopic analysis (NMR, IR, MS), reaction optimization, and ligand design. His ability to develop and fine-tune C–H activation pathways showcases his command over both theoretical and practical aspects of synthetic chemistry.
Teaching Experience
As a professor at Hangzhou Normal University since 2015, Prof. Zhang has actively engaged in curriculum development, graduate supervision, and research mentorship. He is known for blending rigorous theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, encouraging students to explore challenges in chemical synthesis with creativity and scientific discipline.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Prof. Zhang is poised to continue making landmark contributions to the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the development of sustainable and stereoselective catalytic methods. His research bridges academic innovation and industrial relevance, especially in areas like drug discovery, materials chemistry, and renewable photoinitiators. With an established track record and growing international collaborations, he stands as a prominent voice in promoting green and efficient chemical transformations.
Publications
Title: Stereoselective Synthesis of Complex Polyenes through Sequential α-/β-C-H Functionalization of trans-Styrenes
Authors: Yuhang Zhu, Yini Wang, Wenzhou Shen, Xiaoyu Chen, Qiuhua Liu, Limin Yang*, Guofu Zhong*, Jian Zhang*
Journal: Angewandte Chemie International Edition
Year: 2024
Title: Palladium-catalysed α and β C–H allylation of aryl alkenes
Authors: Yilei Liao, Xiandie Zhang, Xiaoli Li, Xiuying Liu, Jiakai Chen, Chao Shen*, Rui He, Guofu Zhong*, Jian Zhang*
Journal: Organic Chemistry Frontiers
Year: 20