[Course fees at Home rate and stipend of no less than the UK Research Council rate (£20,780 p.a.) for 3 years.]

This DPhil studentship in Synthetic Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Oxford offers an exciting opportunity to join the Mehta research group, led by Professor Meera Mehta, in the Department of Chemistry. The project focuses on the synthesis and application of Zintl clusters as catalysts to mediate organic transformations, with a particular emphasis on sustainable main group elements such as phosphorus, germanium, boron, and aluminum. The research aims to develop new catalytic processes that convert common waste products and greenhouse gases, including CO₂, into valuable industrial feedstocks like methanol.

The Mehta group is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise in inert-atmosphere synthesis, organic catalysis, NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, and electrochemistry. The group is committed to breaking down traditional barriers within chemistry and fostering innovation in sustainable chemical transformations. The successful candidate will be based in the Chemistry Research Laboratory at Oxford and will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant research environment.

Funding for this studentship includes coverage of course fees at the Home rate and a stipend of no less than the standard UK Research Council rate (£20,780 per annum) for three years. Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria set out by UKRI, including residency requirements for Home fee status. Candidates should possess a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in Chemistry or a closely related discipline, demonstrate a strong commitment to research, have synthetic laboratory experience, and show the ability to independently acquire new skills.

The Department of Chemistry at Oxford holds the Athena SWAN Silver Award and is dedicated to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion. Applications should be submitted via the Oxford online application system, quoting MM/Chem/2026 under ‘Departmental Studentship Applications’. The application deadline is 12.00 noon UK time on Thursday, 8 January 2026. For further information about the group and research topics, visit the Mehta Lab website. Queries regarding the application and admission process can be directed to [email protected].