Shigeyoshi Inoue

Professor Shigeyoshi Inoue holds the Chair of Silicon Chemistry at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), within the TUM School of Natural Sciences and Department of Chemistry. He leads an internationally recognized research group focused on main group chemistry, particularly low-valent compounds of groups 13-15 elements with applications in catalysis and synthesis.

Education:

• Ph.D. from University of Tsukuba (2008)
• M.Sc. from University of Tsukuba (2005)
• B.Sc. from University of Tsukuba (2003)

Prof. Inoue's research centers on low-oxidation state main group compounds, particularly silicon and aluminum species with unusual structures and reactivity. His work explores how these earth-abundant elements can mimic transition metals in catalytic processes, offering potentially more sustainable alternatives. His group specializes in synthesizing and characterizing novel silylenes, germylenes, and related compounds stabilized by N-heterocyclic carbenes and other ligands. The research has significant implications for green chemistry and sustainable synthesis methodologies.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on CO₂ activation and conversion, small molecule activation, and catalysis using main group elements. The work bridges fundamental chemistry with practical applications, particularly in developing alternatives to precious metal catalysts. His group employs both experimental and theoretical approaches to understand reaction mechanisms and develop new applications.

Major Scientific Awards:

• Christel and Herbert W. Roesky Award (2025)
• The Inoue Prize for Science (2024)
• WACKER Silicone Award (2023)
• ERC Consolidator Grant (2020)
• Eugen und Ilse Seibold Prize (2020)
• Carl Duisberg Memorial Prize (2017)
• ERC Starting Grant (2014)
• Sofja Kovalevskaja Award (2010)

Prof. Inoue has supervised numerous PhD students and postdocs, with current group members including 16 PhD candidates. His research is supported by prestigious grants including ERC Starting and Consolidator Grants. The group maintains strong international collaborations, particularly with Japanese institutions, reflecting Prof. Inoue's background. The research program combines synthetic chemistry, structural characterization, and theoretical studies to advance understanding of main group element chemistry.

The Inoue Research Group operates state-of-the-art facilities for air-sensitive chemistry, specializing in the synthesis and characterization of highly reactive main group compounds. They collaborate with theoretical chemists to understand reaction mechanisms and develop new applications for their compounds. The group's work has potential applications in sustainable catalysis, materials science, and pharmaceutical chemistry.