Jason Zbieg

I joined Genentech as a Scientist in October 2014 after a 9-month stint at Amgen SSF. I did my postdoctoral studies at Princeton University under the guidance of David MacMillan, where I focused on copper catalysis. Prior to my postdoctoral studies, I obtained my Doctor of Philosophy degree under the supervision of Michael Krische. My doctoral research was focused on stereoselective carbon-carbon bond forming transfer hydrogenations, utilizing ruthenium and iridium catalysis.

My education prepared me significantly for the challenges associated with drug discovery. Specifically, for solving very difficult problems correlated with developing novel chemical matter for drug targets. In my current role, I lead a chemistry team tasked with drugging a novel biological pathway.

Postdoctoral Mentor

It feels like a privilege to work at Genentech because we are so highly invested in progressing basic scientific research. Currently, I have two ongoing collaborations with Princeton University and The University of Texas. These collaborations are solely focused on pushing the limits of synthetic chemistry and developing novel bond formations. Having a postdoctoral scholar allows me to pursue these ideas at a more rapid pace. Which potentially, could have an impact on how we pursue our science on portfolio programs.

Past Key Publications

Enantioselective C-H crotylation of primary alcohols via hydrohydroxyalkylation of butadiene. Science. 2012 Apr 20;336(6079):324-7. Zbieg JR, Yamaguchi E, McInturff EL, Krische MJ.
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Simple catalytic mechanism for the direct coupling of α-carbonyls with functionalized amines: a one-step synthesis of Plavix. J Am Chem Soc. 2013 Oct 30;135(43):16074-7. Evans RW, Zbieg JR, Zhu S, Li W, MacMillan DW.
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