Thomas Hansen

Dr. Thomas Hansen is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and affiliated with AIMMS at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. His research focuses on organic reaction mechanisms, particularly glycosylation reactions, SN2/E2 competition dynamics, and computational chemistry. He employs density functional theory (DFT) to study reaction pathways and stereochemical outcomes, with contributions to carbohydrate chemistry and transition metal-catalyzed bond activation.

Key research areas include understanding glycosylation intermediates (e.g., glycosyl cations/dioxolenium ions), stereoselectivity control in organic reactions, and solvent effects on reaction outcomes. His work bridges experimental synthesis and computational modeling, addressing challenges in synthetic methodology and catalysis.

Recent articles highlight studies on anomeric effects in glycosylation, SN2/E2 competition in cyclic ethers, and iron/palladium-mediated bond activation. Hansen’s publications span topics like multicomponent reactions (e.g., Ugi and Passerini), stereoselective synthesis of bacterial antigens, and rational catalyst design.

No scientific awards or formal advisees are listed. His research aligns with Sustainable Development Goals related to advancing sustainable chemistry practices.