EPSRC DTP PhD Project: Shedding light on main group organometallic chemistry

The broad use of scarce noble metals in industrial setups poses a challenge to sustainable catalysis that needs to be tackled with urgency. To provide unique and complementary reactivity modes, this multidisciplinary project will explore the reactivity of low-valent organometallic main group compounds in presence of light, with the aim of studying potential photochemical processes currently limited to transition metals.

The PhD applicant will join the Planas lab, a recently established research group with a strong expertise in organometallic synthesis which is based at the Department of Chemistry. The project will involve the synthesis of organic and inorganic compounds, rational ligand design, optimization of reaction conditions, isolation of reactive intermediates and basic training on computational techniques. Experimental instrumentation will include Schlenk techniques, glovebox manipulation and NMR spectroscopy. The student will have the chance to travel to UK national and international conferences and collaborate with world leading groups from QMUL and national collaborators.

QMUL is a Russell group university and leading research institution internationally with world class facilities. The PhD student will become part of our Doctoral College which provides training and development opportunities, advice on funding, and financial support for research. Our students have access to a Researcher Development Programme designed to help recognise and develop key skills and attributes needed to effectively manage research, and to prepare and plan for the next stages of their career. 

Applications are invited from outstanding candidates with or expecting to receive a first or upper-second class master's degree in Chemistry or an area relevant to the project. A standalone master's degree, or undergraduate integrated master's degree are required for this position. They should have experience or interest in catalysis, organometallic chemistry and/or main group chemistry. We are inclusive, supporting talented students regardless of their background. These studentships are open to those with Home and International fee status; however, the number of students with International fee status which can be recruited is capped according to the EPSRC terms and conditions so competition for International places is particularly strong.

To apply for this studentship, directly contact Dr Planas with your CV, cover letter and English IELTS scores. For direct applications follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage: 

https://www.qmul.ac.uk/spcs/phdresearch/application-process/#apply

Supervisor Contact Details:

Tel: +44 (0) 2078827549

E-mail: [Email Address Removed]

https://www.planaslab.com/