Tom G. Driver

Professor Tom G. Driver leads the Driver research group, focusing on synthetic methodology, mechanism study, and drug discovery. His work centers on reactive intermediates like N-aryl divalent nitrogen species and metal carbenes to develop novel bond-forming reactions for privileged heterocyclic scaffolds. These methods are leveraged to create NAMPT inhibitors targeting diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension and Alzheimer’s. Notable collaborations include pre-clinical studies with the Machado group (Indiana University).

Research interests span organic chemistry, organometallic chemistry, and electrochemistry, with emphasis on generating and controlling reactive species such as nitroarene radical anions and N-aryl nitrenoids. These studies enable synthesis of bioactive molecules and drug candidates.

Publications emphasize innovative catalytic reactions (e.g., rhodium-catalyzed aziridinations, iron-catalyzed nitroso ene reactions) and patent activity in NAMPT inhibition. The group’s work bridges synthetic chemistry and translational medicine, addressing unmet needs in cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.

Labs/Teams: The Driver Group at [Institution] focuses on mechanism-driven synthetic innovations for drug discovery applications.