PhD Position at Kemikum, Stockholm University

Kemikum, with more than 200 employees, is one of the largest institutions at Stockholm University.

The research at Kemikum spans all areas of chemistry including analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic and structural chemistry, as well as organic chemistry. The research projects are numerous, ranging from theory to experiments, from pure basic research to more applied projects often focusing on sustainable chemistry but also advanced analytical methods for chemicals and materials. Kemikum has a well-developed research infrastructure with a variety of equipment supported by qualified staff researchers.

Kemikum is also responsible for undergraduate education in chemistry as well as three master's programs; analytical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and organic chemistry. Doctoral education is conducted in five areas; analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and organic chemistry.

More information about us can be found at: https://www.su.se/kemikum/ (https://www.su.se/kemikum/)

Project Description

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

A PhD position is offered in the group led by Assistant Professor Matteo Costantini at Stockholm University. The project focuses on the development of new silicon-based reagents for the activation of inert organic substrates through single-electron logic. By exploring overlooked reactivity patterns enabled by electro- or photochemical methods, this interdisciplinary project will expand the toolbox for modern synthetic methods. The resulting methodologies will have immediate applications in medicinal chemistry, materials science, and catalysis. In line with Stockholm University's commitment to sustainability, the project also aims to address challenges such as upgrading chemical pollutants and valorizing underutilized raw materials.

The main tasks include: 1) Synthesis and characterization of new silicon-based reagents; 2) Application and studies of the reactivity of the produced active species, possibly 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 approach. A strong background in organic synthesis chemistry is essential, as well as basic knowledge of standard analytical methods (e.g., NMR spectroscopy, gas and liquid chromatography, etc.). Practical experience with electrochemical and photochemical methods is desirable but not mandatory. You should have good command of English, both spoken and written.

Eligibility Requirements

To be admitted to doctoral education, the applicant must have basic and specific eligibility. The eligibility must be fulfilled by the last application date.

You have basic eligibility if you have completed a degree at the advanced level, or completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits (hp), of which at least 60 hp at the advanced level, or otherwise acquired equivalent knowledge in Sweden or abroad.

For specific eligibility, according to the general study plan for doctoral education in the subject of organic chemistry, the applicant must have completed an independent project (thesis) of at least 30 hp at the advanced level in a field relevant to the doctoral subject (organic chemistry) with a passing grade.

Selection

Selection among applicants is made with regard to the ability to benefit from doctoral education. Criteria used to assess this ability include:

• Documented subject knowledge relevant to the research area.
• Analytical and creative thinking.
• Initiative.
• Independence.
• Ability to collaborate.
• Ability to express yourself in spoken and written English.

https://medarbetare.su.se/vart-su/styrning/regelboken/utbildning/antagningsordning-for-utbildning-pa-forskarniva (https://medarbetare.su.se/vart-su/styrning/regelboken/utbildning/antagningsordning-for-utbildning-pa-forskarniva)

About the Position

We offer a fixed-term position as a PhD student according to Chapter 5 of the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100). The employment period may not exceed what corresponds to full-time doctoral education for four years. As a PhD student, you will primarily focus on your own doctoral education, but the position may include limited work with teaching, research, and administration (maximum 20%).

A new PhD position is valid for a maximum of one year, and the position is renewed thereafter for a maximum of two years at a time.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information is provided by the supervisor, Assistant Professor Matteo Costantini, mailto:[email protected]. General information about the workplace and Kemikum at Stockholm University can be obtained from the head of the department, Professor Niklas Hedin, mailto:[email protected].

Application

You apply for the PhD position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete in accordance with the advertisement and that it is submitted to the university by the last application date.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the webpage: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

Stockholm University contributes to the development of a sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment, and the pursuit of truth.