The MJA Lab is a chemistry research laboratory based at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) in Toronto, ON, Canada. Work in the MJA Lab revolves around organic synthesis, which is the construction of carbon-based molecules. We are broadly interested in the creation of interesting and functional novel molecules. The compounds we design, make, and study are useful for various applications, including as catalysts/reagents for organic synthesis and as bioactive/biotool molecules.
The MJA Lab is actively seeking PhD and MSc students. We are a diverse and inclusive research group and we work together to foster a supportive, welcoming, and intellectually challenging environment.
The MJA Lab, Summer 2024 L to R - Back row: Carla Gomes, MJA, Clive Boateng, Fawwaz Azam, Max Reshetnyak, David Raveenththrarajan, John Mulawka - Front row: Sarah VIrani, Walaa Bedewy, Jordhane Hyde (Missing: Alina Weaver-Rodriguez, Hannah Khaja, Jacqueline Banh)
Current Research Interests
silanes in organic synthesis
Organosilanes are functional molecules used synthetically as hydride- and carbon-transferring reagents, among other applications. While a vast array of synthetic methodologies exploiting their utility have been explored, their practical use has been hampered by the fact that reagents are either difficult to handle or require expensive and/or dangerous additives. The MJA Lab demonstrates applications of silanes as inexpensive, green, versatile, and easy-to-handle organic reagents.
design and synthesis of bioactive and bioapplied molecules
The MJA Lab collaboratively develops novel bioactive and bioapplied organic molecules and peptides; these molecules can be applied as drugs, probes, and/or diagnostic agents. Collaboratively designed molecules are synthesized and characterized by The MJA Lab and collaborators evaluate their activity. Active collaborations exist in the areas of small molecule kinase inhibitors, peptidic covalent protein binders and/or inhibitors of protein-protein interactions, ion sensing, biomimicking materials development, and bioimaging agents, with clinical areas of impact including aggressive cancers, neureodegeneration, heart disease, and women’s health.
innovation in spirit maturation
The MJA Lab studies the maturation of spirits such as whisky, tequila, and rum using advanced chemical instrumentation. We have developed alternative methods to mature spirits that do not involve barrels, taking advantage of our knowledge and expertise in small molecule organic chemistry to innovate in this space. MJA and a former student David Raveenthrarajan have commercialized this technology through a Canadian spirits company, VI SIX.
