Preslav Smits

My name is Preslav Smits. I am of dual nationality – Bulgarian and Dutch, and have had a passion for chemistry ever since I was a child. I completed my Bachelors and Masters degrees at the University of Groningen, the Netherlands. I am currently performing my PhD research at the DCM.

My previous experiences in transition metal catalysis and in heavy main group element chemistry naturally led me to what I see as the convergence of the two fields – carbene chemistry. I enjoy solving the jigsaw puzzle-like challenges that molecular catalysis present, and since carbenes are typically very sensitive compounds, I never find myself bored of my work. Additionally, I love seeing and hearing about exotic research (even if it’s the kind of chemistry I would rather avoid doing myself!). As such, the Arcane scholarship has allowed me to explore all of these interests of mine.

In my future career, I envision continuing working on molecular chemistry, whether in an R&D position in industry or continuing with a post-doc into the academic field.