PhD in Chemistry - Prediction and testing of self-assembled aggregates for flexible devices

The Draper group (https://drapergroup.org) is looking for a student

who is interested in completing a multidisciplinary PhD studentship which

focuses on being able to predictively design, tailor and produce responsive organic materials to replace metals in high value mechanoresponsive devices.

With the design of self-assembled functional materials being very difficult, often new materials are found serendipitously, with an application found later. Adding to this, the mechanism of self-assembly of small molecules is poorly understood making designing systems that do assemble almost impossible. This makes designing and making new materials for devices a long and often fruitless endeavour. Therefore, being able to predict the self-assembly of a molecule and its resulting properties would be transformative to the field of organic electronics.

The studentship will involve developing computational prediction models where one can input desired criteria for a material which will provide target organic molecules. The project involves collecting the experimental data used to develop and build the models and then testing the models made.

Some experience in computational chemistry and synthetic chemistry is desired but not essential, just a willingness to try new things.

This unique studentship offers a range opportunities and new skills to be learnt as it combines traditional bench chemistry with modelling and prediction, as well as the chance to learn a variety of characterisation techniques. There also will be the opportunity to conduct placements in different labs within the UK, therefore the applicant will need to be able to work effectively within a larger group of researchers as well as on their own.

The Draper group strive to make the research lab a safe and welcoming place to be for everyone, and inclusivity is very much one of our core values. Interests and activities outside the lab are very strongly encouraged and nurtured. We are involved in many outreach and widening participation projects. We are proud to work with the Women in Supramolecular Chemistry Network (WISC - https://www.womeninsuprachem.com) who’s aim is to provide a community to marginalized groups in supramolecular chemistry in academia and beyond.

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/.