I wish to apply for the Hong Kong Laureate Forum to engage with leading scientists and contribute to interdisciplinary discussions. As a doctoral researcher at EPFL, my work focuses on the synthesis and reactivity of diazoolefins—highly reactive intermediates in organic and organometallic chemistry. My research combines fundamental studies with the development of new reactivity, expanding the ways for constructing reactive complexes.
I also have experience in pharmacology through my contribution to a recent study that introduces a novel lactone-to-lactam transformation on bilobalide, improving its stability and enabling access to new analogues. Through phenotypic screening, we identified a compound that unexpectedly inhibits ferroptotic cell death by restoring GPX4 expression in brain cells. This work highlights how small structural changes can unlock new biological properties.
The HKLF provides an exceptional opportunity to interact with experts in astronomy, life sciences, and mathematics. I am eager to share my expertise in organic and organometallic chemistry while learning from other fields. I believe the forum’s collaborative environment will offer fresh perspectives and inspire new ideas that push the boundaries of my research.

École Polytechnique de Fédérale de Lausanne

Diazoolefins, traditionally considered highly reactive intermediates, have recently been isolated as stable compounds using N₂O or diazo-transfer methods, revealing their strong ylidic character and unique stability. These advancements open new avenues in organic, coordination, and main-group chemistry. My research focuses on the synthesis and reactivity of N-heterocyclic diazoolefins and olefins. Methanol-mediated dimerization of diazoolefins yields quinoidal tetrazines, potent reducing agents. A novel cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (CAAC)-derived N-heterocyclic olefin (NHO) was synthesized, exhibiting distinct coordination properties and reactivity. Investigations into Ir and Rh complexes revealed inter- and intra-ligand C–H activation, while the first late-transition-metal complexes featuring N-heterocyclic vinylidene ligands were isolated and studied from iridium precursors. Additionally, triazolium-based NHOs and bidentate NHOs are being developed for coordination with actinides in collaboration with EPFL experts.