PhD student in Organic Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry, with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest departments at Stockholm University. The Research spans all areas of chemistry such as analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry and organic chemistry. The research projects are many from theory to experiment, from basic research to more applied projects often focusing on sustainable chemistry but also advanced analytical methods of chemicals and materials. The department has a very well-developed research infrastructure with state-of-the-art equipment with qualified support from staff scientists.

The department also hosts the Bachelor's degree programme in chemistry and three Master's programmes: analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. PhD programmes are conducted in five areas: analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry.

More information about us, please visit: Department of Chemistry.

Project description

Project Title: Development of new silicon-based reagents for organic synthesis
Supervision: Assistant Professor Matteo Costantini.

A PhD position is offered in the group of Assistant Professor Matteo Costantini at Stockholm University. The project is centred on the development of novel silicon-based reagents for the activation of inert organic substrates through single-electron logic. By uncovering overlooked reactivity manifolds enabled by electro- or photochemical methods, this interdisciplinary project will expand the toolbox of modern synthetic methods. The resulting methodologies find immediate applications in medicinal chemistry, materials science, and catalysis. Aligned with Stockholm University’s commitment to sustainability, this project also aims to address challenges including the upcycling of chemical pollutants and valorization of unexploited feedstock.

The main tasks will include: 1) Synthesis and characterization of new silicon-based reagents; 2) Apply and study the reactivity of the derived active species, potentially in collaboration with computational chemists; 3) Utilization of the developed methods in heterogeneous systems as part of the applications.

You are proactive, ambitious, and equipped with a problem-solving mindset. A strong background in synthetic organic chemistry is essential, as well as basic knowledge of standard analytical methods (e.g.: NMR spectroscopy, gas and liquid chromatography, etc.). Hands-on experience with electrochemical and photochemical methods is desirable but not mandatory. You should have a good knowledge of English, both orally and in writing.

Qualification requirements

In order to be admitted to postgraduate education, the applicant must have the general and specific entry requirements. The qualification requirements must be met by the deadline for applications.

You meet general entry requirements if you have completed a second-cycle degree, or completed courses equivalent to at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 credits must be in the second cycle, or have otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or elsewhere.

Specific entry requirements are described in the general syllabus for doctoral studies in the field of Organic Chemistry. The applicant is required to have successfully completed an independent work (master thesis) comprising at least 30 credits at advanced level in a subject relevant to the graduate education subject (organic chemistry).

Selection

The selection among the eligible candidates will be based on their capacity to benefit from the training. The following criteria will be used to assess this capacity:

• Documented knowledge in a relevant field of research
• Capacity for analytical and creative thinking
• Initiative
• Independence
• Ability to collaborate
• Written and oral proficiency in English.

Admission Regulations for Doctoral Studies at Stockholm University.

About the employment

We offer a fixed-term employment as a doctoral student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The period of employment may not be longer than what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a doctoral student, you should primarily devote yourself to your own doctoral education, but the employment may include work with education, research and administration to a limited extent (maximum 20 %).

A new employment as a doctoral student is for a maximum of one year, the employment is then renewed for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

For more information, please contact the supervisor, Assistant Professor Matteo Costantini, matteo.costantini@su.se. For general information about the Department of Chemistry, please contact the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Professor Niklas Hedin, niklas.hedin@su.se. 

Application

Apply for the PhD student position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.