Regan J. Thomson

Regan J. Thomson is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Northwestern University, affiliated with the Chemistry of Life Processes Institute (CLP). He holds a B.S. (Hons) from the University of Auckland and The Australian National University (1995–1998), a Ph.D. from The Australian National University (1999–2003), and completed postdoctoral research at Harvard University (2003–2006). His research focuses on organic synthesis, including new reaction design and synthesis of complex biologically active molecules, with interdisciplinary applications in chemical biology and atmospheric chemistry.

• Education:
  • B.S. (Hons): University of Auckland/The Australian National University (1995–1998)
  • Ph.D.: The Australian National University (1999–2003)
  • Post-doctoral Fellow: Harvard University (2003–2006)

His research group explores the interplay between organic synthesis and interdisciplinary collaboration, driving advancements in chemical knowledge. Key areas include biomimetic reactions, natural product synthesis, and the application of organic chemistry to atmospheric processes. Recent work examines oxidative coupling of ketones and the role of chirality in atmospheric phenomena like cloud formation.

Awards:

• Novartis Chemistry Lectureship (2015–2016)
• NSF CAREER Award (2009–2014)
• Amgen Young Investigator (2010)
• Thieme Chemistry Journal Award (2008)

Advising & Grants: Supervises students such as Jenny, Rebekah, and Anhia. Research is supported by NSF and industry partnerships. Recent grants include the NSF CAREER Award focused on interdisciplinary organic synthesis.

Labs & Teams: Leads a laboratory emphasizing collaborative, inclusive environments and interdisciplinary research in organic chemistry and atmospheric science.