The Paradies Research Group at the University of Paderborn is dedicated to advancing modern organic chemistry through innovative catalysis. Led by Prof. Jan Paradies, our team focuses on developing sustainable, metal-free catalytic systems based on main-group elements. By combining experimental organic synthesis with detailed mechanistic studies, we explore new pathways for activating small molecules, transforming stable chemical bonds, and designing efficient catalytic processes.

Our research spans frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) chemistry, main-group “superacid” catalysts, novel rearrangement reactions, and the synthesis of sulfur-rich functional molecules. These efforts not only deepen the fundamental understanding of organic reactivity but also contribute to environmentally conscious chemical technologies — from greener hydrogenations to the catalytic decomposition of greenhouse gases.

Driven by curiosity and inspired by sustainability, the Paradies Group strives to uncover new principles that expand the capabilities of organic chemistry and enable future applications in synthesis, catalysis, and materials science.