Development of systems for reversible electron transfer

Electron transfer and charge separation is one of the most important phenomena in Universe. It plays an important role in processes essential for life, such as photosynthesis, respiration, protein folding and biocatalysis. It is also highly relevant for solar cells, batteries, molecular electronics and smart materials.

The thesis will focus on a possibility of reversible charge transfer between two redox-active centres. The transfer of charge will be in both directions controlled by photoinduced electron transfer[1,2] and both states will be stabilized by external factors, such as macromolecular complexation, follow-up chemical reaction or interaction with stabilizing molecule.[3]

Systems capable of reversible electron transfer where both states will be macroscopically stable will exhibit novel and unprecedented properties: dipole reorientation, control of charges and counterions and regulation of electrostatics.[4] These unique properties will be further used in design of novel materials and devices in molecular electronics.

The candidate will perform synthesis and characterization of organic redox-active molecules and will study their properties both in solution and solid state to understand the phenomena of reversible electron transfer. He/she will become a part of a dynamic junior research team investigating small organic molecules undergoing redox processes and reversible chemical reactions.

Highly motivated and skilful candidate will have the opportunity to extend his/her graduate training in physical and organic chemistry by learning electrochemical, photochemical and advanced spectroscopic methods.

How to apply
To apply for a PhD study at IOCB Prague, you must hold a Master’s degree (MSc) or the equivalent of the MSc in similar field (four or five year undergraduate degree). The application can be submitted before obtaining the Master’s degree, however, the applicant should obtain the degree within five months after the application deadline.

For more information visit our website “Call for PhD applications 2019”:
https://www.uochb.cz/web/structure/797.html

Enquiries
All general enquiries should be directed to Katerina Solcova ([Email Address Removed]). Scientific enquiries can be addressed to the supervisor ([Email Address Removed]).