Varinder Kumar Aggarwal FRS FRSC (born 1961) is a British organic chemist specialising in asymmetric synthesis.
Aggarwal's work on asymmetric synthesis made it possible to selectively synthesise more of the form important to understanding biological processes.
Aggarwal specialises in a type of molecule called ylides, which are important to the Wittig reaction – a standard tool in organic chemistry.
[7] His certificate of election reads: Aggarwal is distinguished for his outstanding contributions to the field of asymmetric synthesis, particularly applications of ylide chemistry where he is the world leader.
His innovative approach is highlighted by the unusual but highly effective reactions of sulphur ylides with boranes, an area that has much scope for future development.