PhD in methodology development in Synthetic Organic Chemistry - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

We are looking for two PhD students to join the group of Prof. Sascha Ott in the Synthetic Molecular Chemistry (SMC) program at the Department of Chemistry – Ångström. Like all other groups at SMC, we carry out research at the interface between molecular inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry, and with physical chemistry as a significant component.

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering and civil engineering programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website.

Subject description/research project: The projects deal with the development of new synthetic methods for applications in organic chemistry. The first project (project A) builds on on-going work in the group to establish new phospha-organic reagents for the reductive coupling of carbonyl compounds to alkenes (see for example JACS 2017, 2940-2943; Chem. Commun. 2019, 6030-6033). The second project (project B) is part of a larger collaboration project on the exploration of novel approaches to organic photoredox catalysis. As such, it will combine aspects of heterogenous, light-absorbing semiconductor systems with organic chemistry.

Work duties: The proposed projects will contain a large amount of synthetic laboratory work, including work under inert reaction conditions (Schlenck line and glovebox), reaction monitoring, product purification and analyses. In addition, project A will include synthetic low-valent main group chemistry, while project B will concentrate on the use of semiconductor systems to photo-initiate organic transformations. As such, the candidate will be required to work on semiconductor surface coatings, and the photophysics of semiconductors in addition to the synthetic organic chemistry.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Requirements:

• a suitable background is a Master of Science (MSc) degree (or Swedish “Magister” or “Civilingenjör”) in Chemistry, with strong documented experience in synthetic organic chemistry, methodology development, and an interest in physical chemistry.
• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• previous documented experience in main group chemistry and glovebox techniques.
• the ability of the PhD student to work independently, to be innovative and not afraid to go outside the traditional discipline boundaries

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Desirable qualifications: For project A, previous documented experience in main group chemistry and glovebox techniques is advantageous.

For project B, previous documented experience in semiconductors photophysics, surface chemistry in addition to a solid expertise in organic chemistry is advantageous.

Terms of employment: The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the university's rules and guidelines.

Application procedure: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included. Please state in the cover letter a preference for either project A or B. 

Salary: According to local agreement (Local collective agreement for doctoral students and students).

Starting date: 01-08-2020 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7.

Scope of employment: 100 %

For further information about the position please contact: Prof. Sascha Ott, e-post sascha.ott@kemi.uu.se

Please submit your application by 10th of June 2020, UFV-PA 2020/1894.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.