Inorganica Chimica Acta 377 (2011) 1–4
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Editorial
A tribute to Professor John R. Moss
As a scholar at the University of Cape Town, Professor John Moss possessed a dedication to teaching and research as intense as that of any academician. A brief description of his work here is a small tribute to Professor John Moss’s lasting contributions to the field of synthetic organometallic chemistry and catalysis. We have had the great fortune of knowing him and here, we would like to give the readers a sketchy profile of our beloved professor, a great scientist, outstanding educationist, and insightful scientific leader in South Africa. He also had a reputation as a sailor, adventurer and mountaineer. Professor John Moss was born in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1945. He obtained his B.Sc. (Hons) degree in 1965 and completed his Ph.D. (1968) with B.L. Shaw, both at Leeds University, England. After postdoctoral fellowships with W.A.G. Graham in Canada and F.G.A. Stone at Bristol, he joined Rhodes University, South Africa in 1973 as a lecturer, where he stayed for 6 years, until 1979. And it was during this period that his publications began to reflect his heavy emphasis on synthetic organometallic chemistry. He then moved to the University of Cape Town as a senior lecturer in 1979 where he continued his work on synthetic organometallic chemistry. During his tenure at this university he obtained various distinctions until his retirement in 2008 as Jamison Professor of Inorganic Chemistry. It was during the periods: 1986, 1992, 1996, 2004, 2007 that Professor John Moss spent sabbaticals as a Visiting Research Fellow with Prof. Jack Norton (Colorado State University), Sir Jack Lewis (University of Cambridge) and Prof. John Bercaw (California Institute of Technology), and Colorado University. Professor John Moss is a Chartered Chemist (CChem) a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, a Fellow of the Royal Society of South Africa as well as a Life Fellow of the University of Cape Town in recognition of his distinguished academic work. In 2006 he was elected as chairman of the Inorganic Chemistry Division of the 0020-1693/$ - see front matter Ó 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.ica.2011.05.004
South African Chemical Institute and in this capacity organized many national and international conferences. He has mentored more than 75 research students apart from several postdoctoral students around the world. In addition to his international reputation as a research chemist, Professor John Moss was known to students and colleagues at University of Cape Town as a dedicated teacher and mentor. At the time of his death he was Emeritus Jamison Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at UCT. The research interests of Professor John Moss have been centerd on the design and synthesis of new inorganic and organometallic compounds. The specific focus has been on applications of these compounds as catalysts, advanced materials and medicines. These studies had particular relevance to industrially important catalytic reactions including CO hydrogenation as well as carbonylation and polymerization reactions. The types of compounds investigated were alkyls, hydrides, carbonyls, carbenes as well as clusters and metallocene compounds of a wide range of transition metals, including the Platinum Group Metals. He has significantly contributed in the areas of novel materials including liquid crystals and organometallic polymers which exhibit interesting behavior and have many potential applications. He published a number of influential works on the synthesis and structural aspects of various organometallic molecules and their biological and catalytical applications. Included in these contributions was his special interest in the modeling of the important catalytic intermediates, e.g. metal-alkyls, metal-alkenyls and metallacycloalkanes. Professor John Moss’s ability to address the subtleties associated with the chemistry of these complexes had a lasting influence on his students. Throughout his scientific career, Professor John Moss’s record attests to his dedication to science. His contributions have created a lasting legacy of scientific discovery and scientific style that will continue to influence chemists in future. Professor John Moss was one of the finest human beings that science can claim, and we have a true affection for him. It has been an honour for us to help in assembling his research findings, with the purpose of highlighting his important research contributions. The notable results of the scientific activity of Professor John Moss have been published in more than 150 original papers. The main research domains and some selected main original achievements are noted below: 1.
Organometallic chemistry A. Metal–carbonyls chemistry [1] (Scheme 1): synthesis and structure of novel metal–carbonyl derivatives. B. Metal–hydrocarbyl chemistry [2]: understanding the chemistry of metal-alkyl and acyl compounds.
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Editorial / Inorganica Chimica Acta 377 (2011) 1–4
Scheme 1.
C. Metal–alkenyls: synthesis, structure and reactivity of bis(1-alkenyl)MCl2 (M = Pd, Pt), alkene metathesis, internal isomerization, metal-allyl species formation, metallacyclosulfides, insertion of CO and CO2 molecules into the metal–carbon bonds, thermolysis studies [3]. D. Metallacycloalkenes and metallacycloalkenes: synthesis, structure and reactivity [4] (Scheme 2). 2. 3. 4.
Dendrimers and polymers: synthesis, metalation, catalysis studies [5]. Catalysis: Fisher–Tropsch synthesis, hydroformylation, ethylene oligomerizations, olefin transformations [6]. Biological applications of various transition metal complexes [7]: synthesis and biological studies of anticancer and antimalarial drug candidates.
In 1966, his first article on the subject appeared (‘‘Nuclear magnetic resonance studies on metal complexes. IV. Arylnickel(II)– dimethylphenylphosphine complexes’’, J. Chem. Soc., Inorg. Phys.
Theor., 1966, 1793). The synthesis and reactivity of the alkylated polycarbonyl transition metal compounds achieved – rapid development in the group giving rise to an important number of research articles (Scheme 1). The subject has been reviewed several times, and over the years all of its aspects have been investigated (synthesis, reactivity, mechanisms, catalysis, clusters, related reactions). A specific commentary must be made about the work of Professor John Moss on the synthesis of organometallic dendrimers. This field has been central in the research activity of Professor John Moss over the years, his group having significantly contributed to its extraordinary development. A review published in 1999 summarizes the more important results in this field. It is fair to say that organometallic dendrimers and their applications is an important area in organometallic chemistry. Equally remarkable are his studies on the catalytical applications of various organometallic species for ethylene oligomerizations, olefin transformations, and hydroformylation, etc. The mechanistic studies of these catalytic reactions involving unusual intermediates were also studied.
Scheme 2.
Editorial / Inorganica Chimica Acta 377 (2011) 1–4
In addition to his interest in organometallic chemistry, Professor John Moss has shown interest in the other areas of inorganic chemistry and therefore, cluster chemistry and molecular modeling have also been very much evident in his research at the University of Cape Town. One of the big interests of Professor John Moss over the years has been in the area of medicinal chemistry. In this sense, his group has always been in close collaboration with various colleagues at the University of Cape Town in the Chemistry Department as well as the Department of Medical Biochemistry. From this work, it is noteworthy to emphasize his interest in antimalarial agents and anticancer drugs. In addition, he has been a consultant for several industrial companies. One example of the broad scientific interests of Professor John Moss is his work on the design of suitable homogeneous catalysts for C–H activation reactions of paraffins. Recently, a new synthetic route, for the synthesis of metallacycloalkenes and metallacycloalkanes from their bis(alkenyl) precursors using Grubbs’ catalysts was developed by Professor John Moss (Scheme 2). This relatively unexplored class of compounds is important as models for catalytic intermediates, particularly in the formation of 1-hexene and 1-octene. In order to conclude this concise, in no way comprehensive survey of the research activity of Professor John Moss, it is noteworthy to document some of his current interests. These include designing green catalysts, synthesis of ‘‘naked’’ metal complexes and reactivity of unusual organometallic species, etc. He always told that the research work is complete only when it is published. He had several invited research fellowships at USA universities, and his participation in several programs of the European Union had strengthened the scientific ties between different European countries (especially Sweden and the Netherlands) and South Africa. The research career of Professor John Moss does not end with his scientific contributions. From his group, many high-level chemistry professionals have evolved, including university professors and high level industry executives. His personal influence on a whole generation of organometallic chemists in South Africa cannot be ignored. On a personal note, John is survived by Lynn, with whom he shared 25 years of marriage, and by their daughters Tara and Miranda, who have just started their university studies. He became ill and tragically, died on 31st May 2010, at the age of 65, as a result of a cancer. Before closing this tribute, a few comments about Professor John Moss by some well-known contemporary chemists will be mentioned: I first met John in 1978 at a ‘braai’ and our paths were intertwined from then on. Our mutual involvement and enjoyment of similar research directions, the outdoors and the directions of SA Inorganic Chemistry provided a basis for a long friendship. He was an innovative researcher as shown for example by his most recent studies on the use of ROMP to make large and unusual metallocycles. The SACI Inorganic conference that he organized in SA in 2007 is memorable for the late night dancing that took place; instigated by John and his team. He has left his many marks on our community! – Prof. Neil Coville, University of WITS, Johannesburg. John Moss was an inspirational educator, outdoorsman, chemist, and human being. My research group and I were blessed to have had John and his family visit for a couple of sabbatical leaves at Caltech. During his first visit he pursued the synthesis of novel organometallic compounds having alkane-diyl units bridging two permethylhafnocene units. More recently he participated in a BPsponsored program to explore fundamental chemistry that could lead to more efficient technologies for methane to liquid fuels and chemicals. John and his group continued that work when he returned to Cape Town, resulting in a joint publication reporting the activation of the C–H bonds of benzene by ruthenium compounds. John will always be remembered for his enthusiasm, gen-
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erosity, and good humor – Prof. John Bercaw, California Institute of Technology, California. This is a sad time for me personally and for all the staff and students in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Cape Town. In paying tribute to him, I do so on behalf of all his many friends, colleagues and students, past and present, who would themselves have wanted to pay their final respects to him on this sad occasion. John was a person with rare attributes in terms of his strength of character, work ethic, commitment, dedication, collegiality and courage. When faced with what most people would regard as an insurmountable challenge, he never saw it as such. To him, these so-called challenges were merely hurdles which had to be faced, negotiated, surmounted and resolved. And he simply got on with it in a most business-like and efficient manner. His professional achievements in teaching, research and administration, as well as his sporting achievements in mountaineering and sailing, bear testimony to this remarkable strength of character with which few people are blessed. And so it was with his illness. In conversations which he and I had during the past several months, he accepted what had to be done, namely to muster his strength and soldier on, no matter the odds. Never did he comment cynically about the cruel hand that fate had dealt him. Never did he feel sorry for himself. He recognized that he simply had to face this new hurdle head-on. And this is exactly what he did. Remarkably, his concern was for his research students and for his various obligations in the Chemistry Department. He was anxious to ensure that appropriate arrangements were in place to cover his inevitable absence from his office and laboratory. He visited the Department a couple of times each week – not because he wanted a change of scenery per se, but rather to be in an environment in which he felt stimulated and excited, an environment which he loved. This allowed him to engage, albeit for short periods of time only, with his colleagues and research students, and to catch up on Departmental affairs. His collegiality and unwavering loyalty to the Chemistry Department have been consistent and sustained throughout his career at UCT. I remember being very impressed when immediately after I succeeded him as the new Head of Chemistry, I apprehensively asked him to assume a few Departmental portfolios. My approach was a little tentative, as he had just completed a demanding and successful term of office as the Head of Department and he could quite reasonably have responded ‘‘No thanks, please count me out, I have done my bit for the Department’’. Not John. He responded with genuine enthusiasm indicating his willingness to take on whatever tasks I asked of him. This continued until his retirement. He always demonstrated a desire to contribute in any way towards the improvement and well-being of the Department. What a unique and commendable attitude!! John leaves many legacies. Among these is the Department’s Equity Development Program, formerly known as ‘‘GOOT’’ or ‘‘Growing our own Timber’’. This program was established during his headship and is a manifestation of his vision and energy. It has produced several success stories over the years. Remarkably, and as fate would have it, quite appropriately, one of the appointees in this program is likely to take up the research reigns now forfeited by John. John’s contributions in shaping the history of the Department of Chemistry at UCT have been significant and substantial. His passing represents a great loss to the Department, to the Faculty of Science and to the University itself. We shall remember him with great respect and affection – Professor Allen Rodgers, Head Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, South Africa. Selected Recent Publications of Professor John Moss [1] (a) A. Sivaramakrishna, B.C.E. Makhubela, H.S. Clayton, J.R. Moss, Coord. Chem. Rev. 252 (2008) 1460;
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[2]
[3]
[4]
[5]
Editorial / Inorganica Chimica Acta 377 (2011) 1–4 (b) M.J. Overett, J.R. Moss, Inorg. Chim. Acta 358 (2005) 1715; (c) M.J. Overett, H. Su, J.R. Moss, Organometallics 26 (2007) 1256. (a) J.R. Moss, S. Ngubane, A. Sivaramakrishna, B.C.E. Makhubela, J.E. Bercaw, J.A. Labinger, M.W. Day, L.M. Henling, H. Su, J. Organomet. Chem. 693 (2008) 2700; (b) A. Sivaramakrishna, H.S. Clayton, M.M. Mogorossi, J.R. Moss, Coord. Chem. Rev. 254 (2010) 2904. (a) A. Sivaramakrishna, B.C.E. Makhubela, G.S. Smith, J.R. Moss, J. Organomet. Chem. 695 (2010) 1627; (b) F. Zheng, A. Sivaramakrishna, J.R. Moss, Inorg. Chim. Acta 361 (2008) 2871; (c) E. Hager, A. Sivaramakrishna, H.S. Clayton, M.M. Mogorossi, J.R. Moss, Coord. Chem. Rev. 252 (2008) 1668; (d) A. Sivaramakrishna, B.C.E. Makhubela, G.S. Smith, J.R. Moss, Polyhedron 27 (2008) 44; (e) A. Sivaramakrishna, H. Su, J.R. Moss, Organometallics 26 (2007) 5786; (f) A. Sivaramakrishna, H.S. Clayton, C. Kaschula, J.R. Moss, Coord. Chem. Rev. 251 (2007) 1394. (a) A. Sivaramakrishna, H. Su, J.R. Moss, Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 46 (2007) 3541; (b) T. Mahamo, A. Sivaramakrishna, F. Zheng, G.S. Smith, H. Su, J.R. Moss, J. Oraganomet. Chem. 693 (2008) 103; (c) A. Sivaramakrishna, H. Su, J.R. Moss, Dalton Trans. (2008) 2228; (d) K. Dralle, N.L. Jaffa, T. LeRoux, J.R. Moss, A. Sivaramakrishna, S. Travis, N.D. Watermeyer, Chem. Commun. (2005) 3865; (e) B. Blom, H. Clayton, M. Kilkenny, J.R. Moss, Adv. Organomet. Chem. 54 (2006) 149; (f) F. Zheng, A. Sivaramakrishna, J.R. Moss, Coord. Chem. Rev. 251 (2007) 2056. (a) N.C. Antonels, B. Therrien, J.R. Moss, G.S. Smith, Inorg. Chem. Commun. 12 (2009) 716; (b) B. Blom, M.J. Overett, R. Meijboom, J.R. Moss, Inorg. Chim. Acta 358 (2005) 3491; (c) M.J. Overett, R. Meijboom, J.R. Moss, Dalton Trans. (2005) 551.
[6] (a) N. Bungane, C. Welker, E. van Steen, J.R. Moss, M. Claeys, Z. Naturforsch. B: Chem. Sci. 63 (2008) 89; (b) A. Sivaramakrishna, P. Mushonga, I. Rogers, R.J. Haines, F. Zheng, E. Nordlander, J.R. Moss, Polyhedron 27 (2008) 1911; (c) M. Haumann, R. Meijboom, J.R. Moss, A. Roodt, Dalton Trans. (2004) 1679; (d) P. Johnston, G.J. Hutchings, N.J. Coville, K.P. Finch, J.R. Moss, Appl. Catal. A: Gen. 186 (1999) 245. [7] (a) P. Govender, N.C. Antonels, J. Mattsson, A.K. Renfrew, P.J. Dyson, J.R. Moss, B. Therrien, G.S. Smith, J. Organomet. Chem. 694 (2009) 3470; (b) Margaret A.L. Blackie, Paul Beagley, Simon L. Croft, Howard Kendrick, John R. Moss, Kelly Chibale, Bioorg. Med. Chem. 15 (2007) 6510; (c) J. Rajput, J.R. Moss, A.T. Hutton, D.T. Hendricks, C.E. Arendse, C. Imrie, J. Organomet. Chem. 689 (2004) 1553; (d) M.A.L. Blackie, P. Beagley, K. Chibale, C. Clarkson, J.R. Moss, P.J. Smith, J. Organomet. Chem. 688 (2003) 144; (e) P. Beagley, M.A.L. Blackie, K. Chibale, C. Clarkson, R. Meijboom, J.R. Moss, P.J. Smith, H. Su, Dalton Trans. (2003) 3046; (f) P. Beagley, M.A.L. Blackie, K. Chibale, C. Clarkson, J.R. Moss, P.J. Smith, J. Chem. Soc., Dalton Trans. (2002) 4426.
Akella Sivaramakrishna Organic Chemistry Division, School of Advanced Sciences, VIT University, Vellore 632 014, Tamil Nadu, India E-mail address:
[email protected] Hadley S. Clayton Department of Chemistry, UNISA, Pretoria, South Africa Available online 11 May 2011
