PhD position (48 months) in organic and main-group chemistry starting in Nov. 2023

Responsabilities

In the framework of the ERC project “B-yond” financed by the Horizon Europe programme, a PhD position is available in the Reactivity, Catalysis and Organometallic (RCO) chemistry research group (Prof. Berionni) at the chemistry department of the University of Namur (www.unamur.be/en/sci/chemistry).

Job description

As a PhD researcher with good theoretical and practical knowledge in main-group and organometallic chemistry, you will investigate the development of synthetic routes towards new geometrically constrained Lewis acids. This PhD project aims in particular at developing new classes of boron Lewis acids and investigating their coordination with nitrogen containing molecules (NH3, nitriles, amines, etc).

Profile

The ideal candidate is a talented and motivated researcher with a master 2 degree in organic, organometallic or coordination chemistry obtained less than one year ago. Very good knowledge and experience in preparative purification techniques, handling of highly reactive species (Schlenk-line and glove-box techniques) and structural characterization of organic and organometallic molecules is expected.

Qualifications and skills

Excellent experimental skills. Excellent communication ability in English (written and oral). Good knowledge of French is a plus. Good competences in the use of common software and databases (Word, Excel, ChemDraw, Scifinder, Reaxys). Ability to integrate and work in a research team. Sense of initiative, responsibility, autonomy, and organization.

Additional information

You will work in Namur, a historic, dynamic and lively city, located in the heart of Belgium, at 30 minutes of Brussels, the capital of the European Union. During this PhD of four years, you will perform your research at the University of Namur, in the organic chemistry division, part of the Namur Institute of Structured Matter (https://nism.unamur.be).

The selected candidate will get a monthly fellowship of ~€1850 after tax. The position is for an initial duration of two years, renewable once. Soon to be graduating master students are welcome to apply provided that they will have graduated before the start of the position. The candidates already in possession of a PhD are not eligible.

Starting date: Nov. 2023

Remarks

APPLICATION

The recruitment procedure of new researchers ensures compliance with the gender balance and non-discrimination principles of the University of Namur. To apply please send a motivation letter, a curriculum vitae, a summary of your master research work / master thesis and the name and e-mail addresses of three reference persons by e-mail to Prof. Guillaume Berionni (guillaume.berionni[@]unamur.be) until October 1st, 2023.

The human resources management policy of the University of Namur is based on respect for the equal rights and equal treatment of all. Diversity is articulated around different axes, including gender, disability, origin, beliefs, age, sexual orientation, and so on. The University of Namur is also a signatory of the Charter of Diversity.