PhD Studentship: Study of reactivity in supramolecular materials

This position is a fully funded 3.5 year PhD studentship (UK home fees only) in the group of Dr Georgia Orton (https://ortonlab.uk/). This PhD research project will explore how molecular-level organisation and self-assembly can be harnessed to provide new synthetic routes to otherwise inaccessible materials. The research will focus on the design and synthesis of novel supramolecular and reticular materials including molecular cages and framework materials, and the study of their reactivity in solution and in the solid state, including via Single-Crystal X-ray Diffraction. The successful candidate will develop a broad range of skills, including in i) synthetic supramolecular and coordination chemistry, ii) collection, analysis and interpretation of key data using a range of characterisation techniques (e.g. SCXRD, NMR), and iii) scientific communication through scientific writing and presentations at national and international conferences. Training will be complemented by a choice of courses available through the School of Chemistry’s Postgraduate Skills Development program and through external training opportunities. The School of Chemistry is keen to achieve a gender and diversity balance across the School and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The School holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award, which recognises its work in promoting women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine in higher education. Candidate requirements: The candidate should have, or expect to obtain, a 1st class or high 2.1 Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemistry. Experience in supramolecular synthesis and X-ray diffraction is desirable but not essential as training will be provided. Application: For informal inquiries please email Georgia at g.orton@bham.ac.uk including a copy of your CV. Please apply through the online portal, for which you will need: (1) A curriculum vitae (CV), (2) a cover Letter summarising your research interests and suitability for the position, and (3) the contact details of two referees. There is no closing date but applications will close once an appropriate candidate has been found. Funding notes: This position is a fully funded 3.5 year PhD studentship (UK home fees only).