PhD Positions in Sustainable Photofunctional Molecular Materials

Application deadline: 22 November 2024 at 23.59 hours local Danish time.
Two PhD positions within development of novel photoactive transition metal complexes and investigation of their photophysical and photochemical properties are available at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy.

Starting date: 1 February 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Application deadline: 22 November 2024.

Project background
Photochemistry is an area of growing importance in modern chemistry to obtain sustainable energy solutions. Photoactive transition metal complexes based on ruthenium and iridium are extensively used in light-harvesting applications. Whilst featuring attractive photophysical properties, ruthenium and iridium belong to some of the rarest metals on Earth. The development of novel photoactive complexes based on Earth-abundant metals to replace those of the rare elements is therefore imperative for cheaper technologies and the green transition. Many first-row transition metals are Earth-abundant, but inherent properties in complexes of the first-row transition metals challenge promotion of photoactive states. These PhD projects strive at using rational ligand design strategies to overcome this fundamental challenge hereby constructing novel complexes based on Earth-abundant metals with unprecedented properties in light-activated processes.

The PhD projects include:
• Design and synthesis of novel photosensitizer complexes based on first-row transition metals including organic synthesis of ligands and their subsequent complexation to metal ions.
• Characterization of electronic structures of novel photosensitizer complexes using steady-state spectroscopy techniques.
• Photophysical and photochemical characterization of novel photosensitizer complexes using time-dependent spectroscopy techniques.
• Development of photocatalytic studies, where both energy and electron transfer processes are of interest.

Qualifications
We are looking for two candidates with strong interests in working on the boundary between synthetic chemistry and physical chemistry aiming at development of photoactive transition metal complexes based on first-row transition metals.

The successful candidates will hold an MSc in Chemistry or a closely related area. Prior experience of synthetic organometallic/coordination chemistry is essential. Experience of characterization of paramagnetic systems, photophysical characterization, and familiarity with time-resolved spectroscopic techniques are desirable.

The candidates must be independent and fluent in English both oral and written.

For further information about the position please contact Assistant Professor Christina Wegeberg ([email protected]).

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is a department focused on basic research. We are happy to move beyond traditional disciplines and work to develop new technologies and sciences across physics, chemistry, pharmacy, mathematics, computer science and biology. The department’s research thus contributes to new knowledge and solutions with applications in the areas of climate, environment, energy, and health.

The PhD candidate will be part of the Section for Chemistry and Pharmacy.

Application, salary etc.
Appointment as a PhD Research Fellow is for three years. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period. The holder of the scholarship is not allowed to have other paid employment during the three-year period.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information salary (only available in Danish) and taxation.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:
• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages) (please attach this under box "Application form")
• Detailed CV, including personal contact information
• Copies of diplomas, Bachelor as well as Master’s degree, including transcript of notes/grades
• The names and complete contact details of at least two referees.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Further information about the PhD-study can be found at the homepage of the University.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply now". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.

Placering: Odense, Denmark