Huihui Zhang a PhD stuent under Prof. Ruben Martin’s supervision has successfully defended her thesis entitled “Nickel Catalysis as an Enabling Vehicle for C–H and C–C Functionalization” publicly on Thursday, 15 January 2026.
The members of the evaluation committee were Prof. Ruben Vicente (Instituto Universitario de Química Organometálica “Enrique Moles”, Spain), Dr. Carla Casadevall (URV-ICIQ , Spain) and Prof. Arkaitz Correa (Universidad del País Vasco, Spain).
First, we will know more about yourself: where are you from, where and what you studied, your hobbies, and any other information you would like to include.
I am from China. After completing my undergraduate studies, I pursued research in organic synthesis methodology at Soochow University. In my free time, I enjoy playing volleyball and badminton, as well as hiking and running. I am particularly fond of natural landscapes featuring mountains and lakes.
Why did you become a scientist?
My interest in chemistry was sparked by my high school chemistry teacher, whose passionate teaching style made the subject come alive. As I continued to deepen my learning and research experience, the diverse and fascinating world of chemical reactions inspired me to further explore the mysteries of chemistry and the unknown.
What do you want to achieve as a scientist?
I hope to develop reactions that have practical value or benefit society. In the process, I aim to clarify reaction mechanisms to better understand and control chemical transformations.
What is your thesis about?
My thesis focuses on Nickel Catalysis as an Enabling Vehicle for C–H and C–C Functionalization. N2O (Nitrous oxide) was utilized as an oxygen transfer reagent, realizing Ni-catalyzed C(sp2)–H and C(sp2)–C hydroxylation. Additionally, a Ni-catalyzed regiodivergent C(sp3)–H amination enabled by chain-walking was developed.
The thing that I like most about my thesis is….
Working on N2O. Although research involving nitrous oxide involved many challenges and setbacks, its distinctive reactivity often yielded unexpected insights. Overcoming repeated difficulties throughout this exploratory journey contributed significantly to my personal and professional development.
From the lessons learnt (or skills developed) at ICIQ, which one do you value the most?
Among the skills I developed at ICIQ, crystal growth is the one I value most. Although often challenging, it is a fascinating process that requires patience, precision, and careful observation. Obtaining high-quality single crystals enables accurate structure determination, deepens our understanding of chemical reactions, and ultimately facilitates the smooth progress of research. Through this experience, I learned the importance of persistence and attention to detail in experimental chemistry.
What ICIQ moment you’ll never forget?
La Castanyada—a truly joyful festival. It also reminded me of my childhood memories of gathering and roasting chestnuts.
Chemistry is fun because…
Chemistry is rewarding because it embraces both failure and success; breakthroughs that emerge after repeated attempts are especially surprising and motivating.
La entrada 恭喜 Huihui Zhang! se publicó primero en ICIQ.