Chatura Goonesinghe

Dr. Chatura Goonesinghe (cdg40@cam.ac.uk) is a Herchel Smith Research Fellow at the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge. He earned his BSc (First Class Honours) in Chemistry from the University of Colombo and a PhD in Chemistry from the University of British Columbia (2023).

• Education:
  • BSc in Chemistry, First Class Honours (University of Colombo)
  • PhD in Chemistry (University of British Columbia, 2023)

His research focuses on bio-inorganic hybrid catalysts within the Mateo Sánchez Lab, integrating homogeneous metal catalysts with protein scaffolds through directed evolution to create artificial metalloenzymes. This work aims to achieve unprecedented control over stereo- and regioselectivity in catalytic systems, bridging molecular biology and inorganic chemistry.

Recent publications highlight his expertise in indium-based catalysis, including cationic indium complexes for polymerization reactions, CO2/epoxide copolymerization, and ligand engineering to enhance reactivity. Key themes include hemilabile ligands, thermoresponsive mechanisms, and sustainable polymer synthesis.

• Scientific Awards:
  • UBC Four Year Fellowship
  • Gladys Estella Laird Research Fellowship