Viresh H. Rawal

Viresh H. Rawal is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Chicago, where he has been since 1995. He received his BS from the University of Connecticut (1980) and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania (1986) under Michael Cava, followed by postdoctoral work with Gilbert Stork at Columbia University. His research spans organic synthesis, focusing on complex bioactive molecules and enantioselective reactions, with significant contributions to transition metal catalysis and organocatalysis, notably the development of chiral squaramide catalysts.

• Education: BS (University of Connecticut, 1980), PhD (University of Pennsylvania, 1986)
• Academic Career: Ohio State University (1988-1995, Associate Professor from 1994), University of Chicago (1995-present, Professor since 1998), Department Chair (2015-2018, 2021-2023)

Rawal’s work emphasizes strategic approaches to total synthesis of natural products like indole alkaloids (e.g., Aspidosperma, ambiguines) and methodological innovations in asymmetric catalysis. His group pioneered the use of chiral squaramides, now widely adopted in enantioselective synthesis. He has delivered over 300 lectures globally and served on editorial boards of major journals, including The Journal of Organic Chemistry and Tetrahedron.

Key Scientific Awards:

• ACS Award for Creative Work in Organic Synthesis (2024)
• ISHC E.C. Taylor Award (2022)
• CRSI Medal (2019)
• ACS Cope Scholar Award (2003)
• Swiss Chemical Society Lectureship (2002)