The major goal of this research was to investigate new analytical techniques and chemistries of chiral reagents which contain an essential selenocarbonyl component. The selenocarbonyl group has been found to be an excellent ⁷⁷Se NMR reporter group for the detection and quantitation of remotely disposed chiral centers. In addition, the selenocarbonyl has been found to play a pivotal role in dictating the stereochemical outcome of an unusual non-Evans syn aldol reaction. Moreover, the nature of the side chain of the aldehyde acceptor can influence the stereochemical course of the reaction to give rise to an apparent anti relationship for the newly created chiral centers.