The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee of the Center for Green Chemistry and Catalysis is pleased to announce a seminar presented by Prof. André K. Isaacs, titled:
“A Click Chemistry Approach to Nitrogen Heterocycles and Inclusive Excellence.”

This seminar will highlight cutting-edge advances in synthetic organic chemistry, particularly the use of click chemistry as an efficient strategy for the synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles—key structural components found in many pharmaceutical compounds.

Beyond the scientific content, Prof. Isaacs will also reflect on innovative pedagogical approaches aimed at fostering greater inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). He will discuss teaching and mentoring strategies adapted to newer generations, with particular attention to students from historically underrepresented groups.

Practical information

📅 Date: Monday, April 20
🕒 Time: 3:00–4:00 PM (followed by a Q&A session)
📍 Location: Room A-2521.1, MIL Campus, Université de Montréal
💻 Format: Comodal (in person and online)

In-person attendance is encouraged, especially for students at the MIL Campus.

👉 Registration link (the online participation link will be sent to registered participants).

Abstract

« My research interest is centered on a very reliable organic reaction – the copper-catalyzed cycloaddition of sulfonyl azides and terminal alkynes (CuAAC) commonly known as ‘click chemistry’. Fragmentation of the resulting 1,2,3-triazole generates reactive intermediates which can be intercepted to synthesize nitrogen heterocycles. Nitrogen heterocycles are important structural components in a majority of pharmaceutical drugs. This seminar will also focus on modern strategies that capitalize on the unique learning styles of the younger generation, with special attention to students from historically marginalized groups, to broaden participation in STEM. I will discuss how to incorporate Gen-Z culture in the classroom, tools for students to educate themselves and how to fuse digital media with academic learning. »

A bit about Prof. André K. Isaacs

A native of Jamaica, André moved to the US to attend the College of the Holy Cross where he received his B.A. in Chemistry in 2005. As an undergraduate, he conducted research in the labs of Kevin J. Quinn focusing on the total synthesis of annonaceous acetogenins Muricatacin and Rollicosin. He received his PhD from the University of Pennsylvania in 2011 (under the guidance of Professor Jeffery D. Winkler), where he focused on the design and synthesis of novel steroid-derived inhibitors of Hedgehog-signaling, based on the alkaloid cyclopamine. He worked as a post-doctoral researcher with Professor Richmond Sarpong at the University of California, Berkeley, where he focused on the synthesis of diterpenoids and the radiolabeled insecticide chlorantraniliprole. In 2012, Andre accepted a tenure-track position at the College of the Holy Cross. In 2018, Andre was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure. In addition to teaching courses in Organic Chemistry, Andre conducts research utilizing copper-mediated organic transformations. He is one of the co-founding members of Outfront – the college’s LGBTQ faculty and staff alliance and serves as faculty advisor to several student groups including the Caribbean African Students’ Assemblage, acapella group Fools on the Hill and Club Tennis.