PhD Positions in Sustainable Photofunctional Molecular Materials

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. 

Please see the full call, including how to apply, on www.sdu.dk.