PhD student in Chemistry with Focus on Synthesis of Functional Organic Materials for Energy and Quantum Applications

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 270 employees and has a turnover of 300 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 programs and master's programs. More information is available on our website. 

Duties

The PhD candidate will focus on the design and synthesis of novel organic molecules, particularly acene-based systems, with tailored properties for photophysical and photocatalytic applications. The work will involve multistep organic synthesis, purification, and structural characterization of functional materials. In addition to synthetic work, the candidate will perform basic optical spectroscopy measurements to assess the photophysical behavior of the compounds and collaborate closely with group members that perform advanced spectroscopic studies. A key aspect of the project is to explore the potential of singlet fission in photocatalysis. The candidate will also be expected to contribute to the preparation of scientific publications, present research findings at group meetings and international conferences, and actively engage in interdisciplinary collaboration.

Description of research project: This project is part of a broader research effort aimed at developing new molecular materials for emerging technologies in energy conversion and quantum information science. Singlet fission is a photophysical process with the potential to enhance solar energy harvesting and enable novel quantum functionalities. By synthesizing and tailoring organic chromophores capable of efficient singlet fission, this project seeks to establish structure–function relationships that can guide the development of next-generation materials. The research is primarily fundamental in nature, but successful outcomes may open new directions in applied photocatalysis and quantum molecular systems. 

Requirements

To meet the entry requirements for doctoral studies, you must

• been awarded a second-cycle degree in Chemistry or equivalent.
• have completed at least 240 credits in higher education, with at least 60 credits at Master’s level including an independent project worth at least 15 credits, or
• acquired essentially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

The candidate must have:

• very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Experience with organic synthesis

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Additional qualifications

Experience with multistep organic synthesis and characterization of materials using NMR spectroscopy is considered an asset.

About the employment

The employment is a temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5 § 7. Scope of employment 100 %. Starting date 1st November or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

For further information about the position, please contact: Victor Gray +46737025030 victor.gray@kemi.uu.se

Please submit your application by 15 Sept 2025, UFV-PA 2025/2409.