Prof C Carmalt, Prof D Tocher
No more applications being accepted
About the Project
An EPSRC Industrial CASE 4-year PhD studentship with Syngenta is available to investigate the use of crystalline metal organic frameworks (MOFs) as a porous matrix into which compounds in solution can be soaked, allowing the molecular structure determination of non-crystalline complexes via single crystal X-ray diffraction. A technology allowing the precise molecular structure determination of any compound (crystalline or not) in low quantities would be one of the holy grails of chemistry; single crystal X-ray diffraction is the ultimate tool to determine the structure of chemical compounds. It allows the chemist to define the stereochemistry of molecules isolated from natural products greatly reducing the time taken to reproduce or mimic compounds used as molecular probes of protein function. However, well-ordered single crystals of suitable quality for X-ray analysis are required, yet many compounds are either not crystalline or only available in minute quantities. The unambiguous structural determination of compounds not amenable to conventional study would provide identification of unknown compounds quickly and with absolute accuracy, as well as gaining information about the adopted conformation of molecules.
The project will involve the synthesis of MOFs and hence inorganic synthesis and some organic synthesis. The project is aimed at extending the applicability of the crystalline sponge method to cover trace level structural problems encountered in crop protection R&D. The compounds will be characterised using NMR, FTIR and where possible Single crystal X-ray diffraction. Training for these techniques will be provided and the project will also involve a 3-month placement at Syngenta
Application Details
Applicants should have (or expect to gain) at least a 2(i) MSci/MChem degree in Chemistry. Applicants should apply via UCL’s online application system https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/apply/apply-now/. Further information on the project can be obtained from Professor Claire j Carmalt ([Email Address Removed]) or Professor Tocher ([Email Address Removed]).
The deadline for applications is 24th June 2017, but the position will be filled as soon as an appropriate candidate is found.
Funding Notes
The successful candidate will receive a stipend (including London allowance) in addition to covering tuition fees. Due to restrictions on funding, this studentship is only open to UK and EU candidates who meet 3 year residency criteria.
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