PhD in organic synthesis at Aix Marseille University, France

Project Description

In the context of an Initiative excellence grant from the A*Medex foundation of Aix Marseille University, we are seeking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team at iSm2 in collaboration with ICR.

This project concerns the development of modern tools for homogeneous catalysis, based on original structures containing a Lewis base and a Lewis acid. These platforms will be utilized in organic catalysis based on the activation mode of frustrated Lewis pairs (FLP), notably for the activation of di-hydrogen molecules.

Specifically, the main theme of this project revolves around the organic synthesis of small molecules that will serve in the efficient construction, within a few steps, of a library of chiral organic catalysts, based on preliminary results from the laboratory (Chem. Sci., 2019, 10, 6524; Dalton Trans., 2019, 48, 17605; J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2012, 134, 17892). The candidate will carry out innovative research to design, characterize, and evaluate the performance of original catalysts. We are looking for an enthusiastic student who wish to contribute significantly to the advancement of main group catalysis.

Job Summary

Organisation/Company: Aix Marseille Université
Department: iSm2
Research Field: Chemistry » Organic chemistry
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Country: France
Application Deadline: 31 May 2024 – 12:00 (Europe/Paris)
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Offer Starting Date: 1 Oct 2024

Candidate’s Qualifications

The candidate must have:

• At least a “mention assez-bien” (fairly good grade) in Master 1 and Master 2 in Organic Chemistry.
• Serious, meticulous, dynamic, and motivated to successfully carry out this project.
• A strong background in organic synthesis is necessary.
• Experience in homogeneous catalysis would be a plus but not required.
• Capable of working in a team and communicating results during group seminars.
• Very good proficiency in English and French (B2 level) is essential.

How to Apply

Send the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter
• Transcripts records (M1 & M2)
• Two letters of recommendation

Send the above mentioned documents to Dr. Olivier Chuzel (iSm2, olivier.chuzel@univ-amu.fr), and Dr. Gaëlle Chouraqui (iSm2, gaelle.chouraqui@univ- amu.fr).

Application Deadline: 31 May 2024 – 12:00 (Europe/Paris)

Additional Information

Website for additional job details