Debra Willison

The effect of ultrasound and of phosphine and phosphine-oxides on the Khand reaction

Abstract Ultrasonic irradiation allows the Khand reaction to be conducted rapidly at low temperatures. Addition of phosphine oxides to the reaction mixture significantly increases yields in most cases.

A simple organocobalt mediated synthesis of substituted 3-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]oct-6-en-7-ones

Abstract A range of substituted propargyl alcohols form ethers with allyl bromide in good yields; conversion of these ethers to the alkyne hexacarbonyl dicobalt complexes using Co 2 (CO) 8 , followed by intramolecular cyclisation gives substituted 3-oxabicyclo[3.3.0]oct-6-en-7-ones (4a–4e) in fair to moderate yields.

Ferrocene derivatives. XXVIII: The metallation of phenylazoferrocene and the synthesis of phenylazocyclopentadienyl derivatives of other metals

Abstract Phenylazoferrocene undergoes nickelation and palladation exclusively on the phenyl group. Lithium phenylazocyclopentadienide has been converted into derivatives of Mo, Mn, Fe, Ru and Rh.

Empowering students by enhancing their employability skills

Abstract Recognising the importance of graduates being equipped with appropriate employability skills alongside their subject-specific skills, we have had transferable skills training embedded throughout our degree programmes for 30 years. More recently, a specific employability skills module for final-year honours students has been created. This module consists of a programme of activities supporting employability skills, which was delivered to final-year undergraduate students from 2012 to 2015. A key feature in the development and delivery of these activities was the involvement of external experts. Detailed questionnaires have captured student perceptions and thematic analysis has revealed key themes. The module has been perceived to be highly useful, resulting in significant increases in students’ confidence across key areas of employability skills. Furthermore, students may hold skewed perceptions of the relevance of generic employability skills to their chosen career path. This fact should be considered when delivering employability skills programmes.