Research within our group focuses on the synthesis, characterization and reactivity of low-valent main group complexes and transition metal complexes. We are particularly interested in the design of new ligands based on tetrylenes such as silylenes and germylenes considering their relatively superior σ-donating and potential cooperative effects. This approach has been targeted for two purposes: (i) synthesis of novel main group and transition metal complexes with unusual structures and unique electronic properties; (ii) opening up hitherto unseen modes of reactivity for small molecule activation and catalysis.