I joined the Chemistry Department at Kenyon College in 2004 after completing doctoral studies at Cornell University. In collaboration with undergraduate students, I pursue the creation and evaluation of new molecules to catalyze reaction of mutual interest. The research currently underway in my laboratory is at the intersection of organic, inorganic and polymer chemistries. The compounds we investigate may be biodegradable and sourced from plants or may spontaneously ignite on contact with air. Students who work with me thus learn a diverse range of techniques. My teaching is primarily within the sophomore Organic sequence with periodic forays into an advanced lab course or seminar.

Areas of Expertise

Catalysis, air-free technique, polymer chemistry.

Education

Ph. D. Cornell University
B. S. Beloit College

Selected Publications

Church, T. L.; Getzler, Y. D. Y. L.; Byrne, C. W.; Coates, G. W. "Carbonylation of heterocycles by homogeneous catalysts" Chem. Commun.. 2007, 657-674.

Church, T. L.; Getzler, Y. D. Y. L.; Coates, G. W. "The Mechanism of Epoxide Carbonylation by [Lewis Acid]+[Co(CO)4]- Catalysts." J. Am.. Chem.. Soc. 2006, 128, 10125 - 10133.

Getzler, Y. D. Y. L.; Schmidt, J. A. R.; Coates, G. W. "Synthesis of an Epoxide Carbonylation Catalyst: Exploration of Contemporary Chemistry for Advanced Undergraduates." J. Chem. Educ., 2005, 82, 621-624.

Getzler, Y. D. Y. L.; Kundnani, V.; Lobkovsky, E. B.; Coates, G. W. "Catalytic Carbonylation of beta-Lactones to Succinic Anhydride." J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004, 126, 6842-6843.

Weil, J.; Mathers, R. T,; Getzler, Y. D. Y. L. "Lactide Cyclopolymerization by an Alumatrane-Inspired Catalyst" Macromolecules, 2012, 45, 1118-1121.