This thesis describes the development of new pathways towards the synthesis of novel antimicrobial (and anticancer) agents. Two synthetic protocols based on free radical chemistry are studied, which are used to access polycyclic heterocyclic compounds of potential biological importance. Both these procedures involve the generation of radicals using Bu3SnH and AIBN initiators, and the subsequent intramolecular radical cyclisation onto the imidazole ring. Radical cyclisations onto benzimidazoles and pyrroles are also described.