In this paper, we describe details of a study into the asymmetric synthesis of bis-alpha -amino acids via alkylation of a benzophenone-derived glycine imine under phase-transfer conditions. By employing chiral quaternary ammonium salts derived from cinchona alkaloids it was found that the target bis-amino acids can be produced in good overall yield, and with high levels of stereoselectivity. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.