Pioneer in Organometallic Chemistry to join Department

Professor Weller is a currently holder of an EPSRC Established Career Fellowship (2015–2021) and was recipient of the Royal Society of Chemistry Frankland award in 2016. He is currently co–director of the EPSRC CDT in Inorganic Synthesis for Future Manufacturing at Oxford (OxICFM).

Professor Weller has made important, innovative and pioneering contributions to the organometallic chemistry of the transition metals, most notably in the areas of novel synthetic techniques; the mechanism–led design of efficient and selective catalyst systems; C–H, B–H or C–C activation; and the generation, characterisation and use of highly reactive and novel organometallic complexes.

Blending innovative fundamental research with a focused trajectory towards delivering real-world solutions using precision catalysis, Professor Weller’s research has impact on the efficient use of finite natural resources, the manufacture of new high–performance materials, and more efficient synthesis of fine chemicals for potential pharmaceutical uses.  

Head of Department, Professor Duncan Bruce said: “We are very excited about this appointment as York has a strong tradition in the fields of Professor Weller’s expertise, namely organometallic chemistry and catalytic processes. To be able to attract a world-leading scientist to the department will further enhance our profile and capability in these areas.”

Professor Weller commented: “I have long admired York Chemistry’s approach to supporting and delivering world–class science, in particular the high quality of the faculty, the excellent environment and infrastructure, the obvious collegiality of staff, and its enviable reputation for excellence across the spectrum of the Chemical Sciences. I, and my group, are very much looking forward to joining the vibrant community at York and we are very excited by the new opportunities this will give us in the future.”

Professor Weller received his first degree from the University Warwick, and his PhD from the University of Bristol in 1995. Postdoctoral positions at Heriot-Watt and Notre Dame were followed by a Royal Society University Research Fellowship held at the University of Bath. He then moved to Oxford in 2007 to a personal chair in Inorganic Chemistry. 

Professor Weller will arrive in York in early 2020; his research team of 10 graduate and PDRA co-workers will be relocating to York with him. They will make significant contributions to the Department’s research theme of Synthesis, Catalysis and Mechanisms.