Hisashi Yamamoto

He recognized and uncovered the key aspects of Lewis and Br?nsted acid catalysts in selective organic synthesis particularly for the synthesis of molecules as single enantiomers. Introduced binaphthol as a key ligand for chiral Lewis-acid catalysts. His nitroso chemistry, based on Br?nsted acid catalysis, offers an entirely new access to selective organic synthesis and provides catalytic enantioselective methods to introduce oxygen and/or nitrogen into the molecule. His catalysts are used extensively for the synthesis of a wide range of compounds and drugs.