PhD in New Directions for the Sustainable Synthesis of Polyurethanes from CO2

Project Summary:

This project aims to make key advances in converting CO₂ into new sustainable polymer materials, underpinned by the development of new catalytic pathways. This is an interdisciplinary project spanning organometallic chemistry, homogeneous catalysis and polymer synthesis. You will be provided with high level training across a range of areas including air-sensitive organometallic synthesis and characterisation (e.g. the use of Schlenk techniques, gloveboxes and NMR spectroscopy), mechanistic understanding and materials characterisation (e.g. SEC, DSC and TGA).

Candidates:

The successful candidate should hold, or expect to receive, a 1st class or 2.1 MSci degree or equivalent, and will be motivated, enthusiastic and able to work independently. Ideal candidates will have some experience in organometallic synthesis, homogeneous catalysis or polymer chemistry. Experience in obtaining and analysing characterisation data on novel compounds is also desirable.

How to Apply:

Applications can be made by contacting Amit Kumar ([Email Address Removed]) and/or Jennifer Garden ([Email Address Removed]). Please include a cover letter, CV, a copy of degree transcripts and contact details for two referees. Interested candidates are welcome to email any questions directly to Dr Jennifer Garden or Dr Amit Kumar.

Applications for the position will remain open until Friday 28 February 2025, however the position may be filled before this for a suitable candidate. Therefore, early application is encouraged.

 IMPORTANT

Before submitting your cover letter and CV, please complete the online School of Chemistry Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Form, entry 2025-26.

The form will automatically generate a unique ‘Response ID number’ that you must include in your cover letter.

Equality and Diversity

University of Edinburgh:

The School of Chemistry holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. The University is a member of the Race Equality Charter and is a Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champion, actively promoting LGBT equality.

The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment.

For further information, please see our University Initiatives website:

https://equality-diversity.ed.ac.uk/inclusion/family-and-carer

University of St. Andrews: Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience. We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter, Race Charters and Stonewall). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network. Full details are available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/.