Fraser Fleming

Fraser Fleming is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Drexel University, specializing in synthetic organic chemistry and organometallic applications. His research focuses on developing novel methodologies for constructing biologically relevant scaffolds, utilizing metalated nitriles and isocyanides as key nucleophiles in hindered bond formation and peptide mimicry.

Dr. Fleming holds a BS (Hons.) in Chemistry from Massey University (1986), a PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of British Columbia (1990), and completed post-doctoral research at Oregon State University (1990-1992). Prior to joining Drexel in 2013, he served on the faculty at Duquesne University and as a program director at the National Science Foundation.

His investigations center on stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms, and the development of efficient synthetic routes to pharmacologically active compounds. Key areas include:

• Design of metalated nitrile systems for sterically challenging bond formations
• Development of isocyanide-based precursors for peptide analogues
• Creation of cascade reactions for rapid heterocycle assembly

Recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on innovative cyclization strategies, isocyanide functionalization, and stereoselective synthesis, with applications in pharmaceutical lead development. His work frequently appears in leading organic chemistry journals including Journal of Organic Chemistry and Organic Letters.

Dr. Fleming leads the Fleming Research Group, mentoring graduate students in synthetic methodology development. His laboratory focuses on translating fundamental reactivity studies into practical synthetic applications for bioactive molecule construction.