Research which explored the highly valuable approach of C-H activation and functionalisation in organic synthesis culminated in Dr Sachin Mohite being awarded a PhD during UKZN’s Spring Graduation ceremony.
Supervised by Professor Rajshekhar Karpoormath and Professor Milan Bera, Mohite’s research focused on the development of innovative and sustainable C-H functionalisation methods which have the potential to reshape the landscape of synthetic chemistry and contribute to industries such as pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Reflecting on his achievement, Mohite expressed immense pride and fulfilment. ‘Achieving my PhD has been an incredibly rewarding experience filled with years of dedication, curiosity, and perseverance,’ he said. ‘While this is a proud milestone, it also fuels my aspirations to continue pushing boundaries in research.’
He looks forward to pursuing a career in academia or industry, aiming to contribute further as a postdoctoral researcher.
Mohite’s research explored the highly valuable approach of C-H activation and functionalisation in organic synthesis. This method offers several advantages over traditional synthetic techniques, including improved step economy, cost-effectiveness, and waste reduction. These advancements hold the potential to streamline drug discovery processes and reduce production costs in the pharmaceutical industry, ultimately benefiting society by making essential medicines more affordable and accessible.
His work is novel in its methods, representing the first of its kind in this specific area of C-H functionalisation. ‘The complexity of understanding these reactions and mechanisms made the process challenging, but that complexity also made it all the more rewarding,’ he said.
Mohite’s fascination with organometallic chemistry began during his master’s studies and grew further when he was introduced to C-H activation and functionalisation. ‘The ability to modify carbon-hydrogen bonds directly, bypassing the need for pre-functionalised substrates, has far-reaching implications for industries such as pharmaceuticals and materials science. This sparked a deep interest in the field, and I became determined to contribute to its advancements,’ he explained.
Similar to many PhD candidates, Mohite, an Indian national, faced significant challenges throughout his research journey. ‘There were times when the reactions didn’t work as planned, or even when they did, isolating and understanding the compounds could be incredibly difficult,’ he said.
During some periods, he faced months of seemingly stalled progress. However, his perseverance and determination, along with support from his mentors and extensive literature review, allowed him to overcome these setbacks and push forward.
Mohite says his time at UKZN provided him with an enriching academic experience. ‘The University offers top-notch research facilities, state-of-the-art laboratories, and access to the latest technology, all of which played a crucial role in advancing my work,’ he said.
He praised the collaborative and supportive academic atmosphere, which helped him grow as a researcher, along with the beautiful campus and the warmth of South African people.
Born and raised in a small town in Maharashtra in India, Mohite completed his schooling at government institutions before earning his master’s degree and gaining valuable experience working in the pharmaceutical industry. After working for more than two years, he registered for his PhD at UKZN.
Mohite credits his family, friends and academic mentors as his greatest sources of support and motivation throughout his journey. ‘My brother, sister, and parents were always there to encourage me as well as my PhD supervisor and co-supervisor, who were incredibly supportive,’ he said.
Outside academic pursuits, Mohite enjoys playing cricket and travelling, activities that help him unwind and explore new places.
With a bright future ahead, Mohite is eager to continue his contributions to the scientific community and hopes to advance knowledge in chemistry for the betterment of society.
Words: Nombuso Dlamini
Photograph: Supplied