Sustainable Synthetic Transformations: Replacing Photons with Electrons

Post Summary

We are pleased to invite applications for two fully funded PhD studentships to work on a project at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry, electrochemistry, and sustainability. The research aims to replace traditional photoredox catalysts with electrochemical radical initiation, developing cleaner and scalable methods for the synthesis of high-value fine chemicals.

These studentships are part of a larger project that seeks to integrate experimental and theoretical approaches to build sustainable synthetic platforms aligned with renewable energy technologies. The successful applicants will work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team with access to excellent research facilities and strong academic support.

Project Title- Sustainable Synthetic Transformations: Replacing Photons with Electrons

These PhD projects will focus on the development of electrochemically-initiated radical reactions, eliminating the need for toxic or rare metal-based initiators. The work will explore:

● The development and mechanistic study of solution phase radical chain processes, including [2+2] cycloadditions and the thiol-ene reaction manifolds.

● The influence of solvents, electrolytes, and electrode materials on reactivity and selectivity.

● Electrochemical analysis using low-support systems and voltammetry.

● Contributions to modelling reaction kinetics and transport.

● Prototyping and development of flow cell reactor design.

There is scope to tailor aspects of the research to the candidate’s interests and strengths, including synthetic method development, physical organic chemistry, electroanalysis, or modelling.

Standard Duties and Responsibilities of the Post

● Carry out experimental research in electrochemical and synthetic organic chemical synthesis, characterisation and testing, including relevant literature reviews.

● Assist in the supervision of masters, undergraduate, and visiting research students.

● Carry out teaching and demonstrating duties as directed by the School of Chemistry.

● Attend training and taught modules as required by the PI/School/University.

● Contribute to lab management (e.g. equipment maintenance, ordering of supplies, monitoring safety).

● Preparation of progress reports.

● Present and publish research outputs to both academic and non-academic audiences.

● Attend and participate in academic and non-academic conferences, events and seminars.

● Successful applicants may be required to undertake other duties that are broadly in line with the objectives of the research programme.

Funding Information

Funded by Research Ireland. Successful candidates will receive an annual stipend of €25,000 and an annual tuition fee contribution of €5,500 for up to 4 years.

Person Specification

Qualifications

Suitable applicants should hold or expect to receive a BSc (2:1 or higher), MSc, or equivalent qualification in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline.

Knowledge & Experience

Applicants should have good knowledge/experience in the following areas:

● Laboratory experience in chemical synthesis and/or analytical techniques.

● Basic understanding of electrochemistry or redox chemistry.

● Familiarity with common characterisation methods (e.g. NMR, UV-Vis, GC-MS).

Desirable:

● Knowledge of cyclic voltammetry or other electroanalytical techniques.

● Exposure to modelling (e.g., reaction-diffusion systems, numerical simulation).

● Awareness of green chemistry principles, flow chemistry, or sustainability in synthetic methodology.

Skills & Competencies

● Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

● Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.

● Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

● Clear written and verbal communication.

● Willingness to engage with interdisciplinary research and learn new techniques.

● Commitment to inclusive, responsible research practices.

● Good interpersonal skills.

Application Procedure

Applicants should submit a Cover Letter and full Curriculum Vitae to include the names and contact details of 2 referees (including email addresses), to:

Prof. Chris Batchelor-McAuley

[Email Address Removed] 

with the subject line: “RADICAL PhD Application”.

The deadline for submission is noon on Friday the 23^th of May.

The positions will be filled once suitable candidates have been identified. Only applicants who have been selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful applicants will start in September 2025.