Synthesis of macrocycles and medium-sized rings via new ring expansion approaches

Summary

Macrocycles (12+ membered rings) and medium-sized rings (8–11-membered) are cyclic molecules with great potential in many scientific fields and technologies – especially in medicinal chemistry. However, they are hard to make using current methods. A major driver in the Unsworth group is therefore to develop innovative new synthetic methods by which large ring molecules can be made more easily, using a range of novel ring expansion reactions.[1-8]

Project

We welcome applications from talented individuals interested in applying cutting edge synthetic methods creatively, for the development of new ring expansion reactions for use in large ring synthesis. All of our ring expansion projects are firmly grounded in synthetic organic chemistry and projects are available several different reaction areas. We are willing to consider PhD candidates interested in Cascade Ring Expansion reactions[1], Successive Ring Expansion (SuRE) reactions,[2-6] and Conjugate Addition ring Expansion (CARE) reactions.[7] We are also happy to consider ring expansion projects focused on target synthesis (e.g. natural products) and medicinal chemistry. Candidates are encouraged to contact Dr Unsworth to discuss potential projects informally, in order to help choose a project area that best matches their expertise and interests.

Training

Training in synthetic chemistry will be provided to ensure the student has a strong overall knowledge of organic chemistry and the associated practical techniques e.g. anhydrous methods, purification, characterisation, spectroscopy etc. This will be supplemented by regular mechanistic and retrosynthetic problem classes and group meetings. Optional training in computational chemistry (DFT) is also available if required.[6] Students will also attend courses to help develop skills to support their professional development more generally, provided by the iDTC and the award-winning researcher development unit in York. The skill set ultimately attained will ensure the student is in high demand for industrial/academic vacancies after the PhD. By combining synthetic utility with conceptual novelty, several impactful publications are expected to result from a PhD project in the areas proposed, and the student will be expected to take an active part in their preparation. They will also be encouraged to help disseminate the work where possible through conference presentations, posters and online/social media.

You will follow our core cohort-based training programme to support the development of scientific, transferable and employability skills, as well as training on specific techniques and equipment. Training includes employability and professionalism, graduate teaching assistant training and guidance on writing papers. https://www.york.ac.uk/chemistry/postgraduate/training/idtc/idtctraining/  

There will be opportunities for networking and sharing your work both within and beyond the University. Funding is provided to enable you to attend conferences and external training. The department also runs a varied and comprehensive seminar programme.

Equality and Diversity

The Department of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN Gold Award and is committed to supporting equality and diversity for all staff and students.  The Department strives to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel: https://www.york.ac.uk/chemistry/ed/

As part of our commitment to Equality and Diversity, and Widening Participation, we are working with the YCEDE project (https://ycede.ac.uk/) to improve the number of under-represented groups participating in doctoral study.  

Entry requirements 

You should hold or expect to achieve the equivalent of at least a UK upper second class degree in Chemistry or a relevant related subject.   Check the entry requirements for your country: https://www.york.ac.uk/study/international/your-country/

English language requirements: https://www.york.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/international/english/

For more information about the project, click on the supervisor's name above to email them. 

For more information about the application process or funding, please click on email institution.

Guidance for applicants: https://www.york.ac.uk/chemistry/postgraduate/apply/

Submit an online PhD in Chemistry application: https://www.york.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/courses/apply?course=DRPCHESCHE3