PhD in Chemistry - Multivariate Modulation of Metal-Organic Frameworks

Bright, highly motivated candidates are invited to apply for a fully funded 3.5 year PhD position in the School of Chemistry, available to commence on 1st October 2021 in the Forgan research group at the University of Glasgow.

We have recently invented a new pore functionalisation protocol for metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), porous networks of inorganic clusters connected by organic linkers, called multivariate (MTV) modulation (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2020, 59, 5211). Multiple functionalised modulators – monotopic analogues of the multitopic ligands that connect MOFs – are included in syntheses and become incorporated as charge-compensating defects throughout their internal porosity, this functionalising the porosity. The project will develop MTV modulation into a wide-ranging, general protocol for pore-functionalisation of MOFs by careful scrutiny of the fundamentals of modulated self-assembly, while scoping out the potential applications MTV- modulated MOFs in selective gas storage and as highly specific heterogeneous catalysts. Specifically, we will use chemically stable tri- and tetra-valent MOFs as benchmark materials for MTV modulation, pushing the limits of the technique to generate highly functionalised MOFs with a range of pore chemistries and topologies, while correlating defect-structure-property relationships through advanced spectroscopies. Optimal materials will be carried forward for applications, with assistance from a global network of expert collaborators.

The ideal candidate will hold (or expect to hold) a 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc or equivalent, and have experience of organic and inorganic synthesis, solid-state analytical techniques. The student can expect to become an expert in the design, synthesis and analysis of porous materials, through hands on experience of solid-state synthesis, crystallographic techniques, NMR spectroscopy and gas uptake measurement, as well as potentially being involved in cell culture, imaging, and in vitro assays if biological components of the project are developed

More information on the Forgan group can be found at:

http://www.forganlab.com

Prospective candidates should contact Prof Forgan for information by email – [Email Address Removed] – with a CV and cover letter, as soon as possible.

It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment.

We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equality.

As an Athena SWAN Bronze Award holder, the School of Chemistry has equality, diversity and inclusion at its heart, and actively supports applications from all sections of society.

More details of the School’s Athena SWAN activities can be found here:

https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/chemistry/abouttheschool/athenaswan/

How to Apply: Please refer to the following website for details on how to apply:

http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/.