Ruben Martin

Ruben Martin is a leading researcher in synthetic organic chemistry and sustainable catalysis, serving as a Group Leader at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) and an ICREA Research Professor. His work focuses on developing innovative catalytic methodologies for C–O, C–H, and C–C bond functionalization, with applications in CO₂ utilization and complex molecule synthesis.

His research interests lie at the intersection of organometallic chemistry and sustainable synthesis. He pioneers methods using nickel and photoredox catalysis to achieve remote functionalization, chain-walking, and stereoselective bond formation. His group emphasizes practical, scalable, and environmentally conscious synthetic strategies, contributing significantly to the field of catalytic C–H and C–O activation.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward dual catalytic systems (Ni/photoredox), enabling radical relay processes, regiodivergent dicarbofunctionalization, and enantioconvergent coupling. His work consistently targets unactivated substrates and aims for high selectivity and step-economy, pushing the boundaries of synthetic methodology.

• 2024 Medal Spanish Royal Society of Chemistry
• 2019 Arthur C. Cope Scholar Award
• 2018 II Banco Sabadell Award to Sciences and engineering
• 2018 Hirata Award
• 2018 ChemSocRev Pioneering Investigator Award
• 2017 Liebig Award
• 2017 OMCOS Award

Ruben Martin actively mentors a large team of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering the next generation of synthetic chemists. His research is supported by prestigious grants, including an ERC Advanced Grant (NOVOFLAT), Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks (BREAKthrough, FLUOR-DIOX), and national funding from AGAUR and the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. These grants support projects on antibiotic development, fluorination, and novel cross-coupling methodologies.

He leads a vibrant research group at ICIQ, which is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for chemical synthesis and characterization. The group collaborates extensively within ICIQ and with international partners, contributing to a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment focused on solving fundamental challenges in organic synthesis.