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PhD studentship in: Visible-Light Photoredox Catalysis for the Functionalisation of Complex Molecules

PhD studentship in: Visible-Light Photoredox Catalysis for the Functionalisation of Complex Molecules

United Kingdom 03 Mar 2021
University of Nottingham

University of Nottingham

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OPPORTUNITY DETAILS

Total reward
0 $
State University
Area
Host Country
Deadline
03 Mar 2021
Study level
Opportunity type
PhD
Specialities
Opportunity funding
Not funding
Eligible Countries
This opportunity is destined for all countries
Eligible Region
All Regions

Reference SCI1972

Closing Date Wednesday, 3rd March 2021

Department Chemistry

About the Project

Application deadline: Open until filled
Supervisor: Mattia Silvi (https://silviresearch.com/

Institution: University of Nottingham
Start date: July 2021 or Oct 2021

Project description 

Synthetic organic chemistry lays at the heart of Science and Technology and has greatly enabled the development of important life-changing discoveries. For instance, the discovery of novel powerful medicines generally requires the study of a number of structural analogues of complex chemical structures. Conventional approaches for the synthesis of these structural analogues rely on sequences of chemical reactions from early intermediates, often requiring the use of protecting groups and functional group oxidation state modulation. The time and resources required to complete the complex synthetic routes greatly reduce the number of structures accessible, defining strict boundaries to chemists' imagination for the invention of the pharmaceuticals of tomorrow.

In contrast to the conventional approaches mentioned above, we are working on the development of novel photoredox visible-light driven processes which allow the functional group-tolerant chemical modification of complex organic molecules under remarkably mild conditions (visible light irradiation). The processes are based on the photoredox generation of highly reactive radical species, which can undergo a rich reactivity and generally show high levels of tolerance to protic and moderately Lewis basic functionalities. 

The successful candidate will explore new avenues in the field of photoredox catalysis, working on the discovery, the study and the optimisation of novel radical reactions. The scope of the reactions will then be investigated in the late stage functionalisation of complex molecules. 

The graduate student will work at the GSK Carbon Neutral Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, University of Nottingham, taking advantage of state-of-the-art research facilities. The student will develop extensive skills in organic chemical synthesis and spectroscopy and receive substantial training in radical chemistry, asymmetric catalysis and photochemistry: all fields which are increasingly popular in both academia and industry.                                                                                                                             

The ideal candidate will hold a degree in Chemistry, or related, and have developed a strong interest in the field of organic chemistry. The start date for this project can be flexible: ideally Oct 2021 but earlier starters are also welcome (please see eligibility below). The studentship will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate has been found, hence candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit our research group website (https://silviresearch.com) and can contact Dr Mattia Silvi (mattia.silvi@nottingham.ac.uk) for more details or enquires about the project. 

Entry requirements

Applicants should have, or expected to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent if from other EU countries) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related subject. A MSc-4-year integrated Master’s, a BSc + MSc or a BSc with substantial research experience will be highly advantageous.  If English is not the candidate’s first language, they must provide evidence before the beginning of the studentship that they meet the University minimum English Language requirements (IELTS Academic 6.0 with at least 5.5 in each element). 

Funding Notes

Fully funded studentship to commence in Oct 2021. UK students – tuition fees paid and full stipend, tax-free, for 42 months at the RCUK rate (currently £ 15,285 per annum). EU students eligible and considered as UK students if available to start by July 2021.

How to apply 

Please send a cover letter and CV to mattia.silvi@nottingham.ac.uk detailing your previous research experience and current research interests. 

Formal applications will then be made online through the University of Nottingham’s online application system: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx 

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