About
Aitor joined Swansea University as a Lecturer in Chemistry in March 2026, bringing a diverse international background in synthetic methodology and catalysis. He earned his PhD in 2019 from the University of the Basque Country, conducting research under the supervision of Prof. Palacios and Vicario. His doctoral work focused on the asymmetric synthesis of alpha-aminophosphonates, building a strong foundation in stereoselective synthesis.
Following his PhD, Aitor embarked on a series of postdoctoral appointments across Europe. He first joined Prof. Harutyunyan’s group at the University of Groningen, where he specialised in Cu(I)-catalysis, before moving to the University of St. Andrews to work with Prof. Watson. There, his research pivoted toward the fundamental mechanisms and versatile applications of the CuAAC (Copper-catalysed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition) reaction.
In 2022, his trajectory was distinguished by a Fellowship from the Basque Government, which included a two-year research stay in Prof. Kappe´s laboratory at the University of Graz. This period allowed him to combine his expertise in organic synthesis and catalysis with flow chemistry before returning to the University of the Basque Country.