Research ProjectThe ability of chemists to invent new transformations is at heart of our modern society, as methods to forge bonds with increased precision and selectivity enable a more efficient preparation of materials, medicines, agrochemicals and fine chemicals. Catalysis is a powerful tool to devise new reactions and render the existing ones more selective, thus contributing to a more sustainable use of natural resources. In this context, our young research group (www.franchinolab.com) pursues a research program that merges in original ways elements taken from both organo- and transition-metal catalysis, to open new paths for stereoselective reactions of unsaturated feedstock substrates and for sustainable synthesis oriented to medicinally relevant scaffolds.In this context, you will design, prepare and test chiral organocatalysts capable of engaging with common metal halide (pre)catalysts via non-covalent interactions, using an anion-binding approach. These binary catalytic systems will then be screened combinatorially in several reactions, including with a high-throughput experimentation setup, to achieve increased rate, unusual regio- and stereoselectivity and/or unprecedented levels of enantiocontrol. The mode of action of the binary catalytic systems will be investigated experimentally and explored computationally. Improved second-generation catalysts will be designed following mechanistic insights, with the help of structure-activity relationships and computational predictions.During your PhD, you will receive hands-on training on a wide variety of technical aspects: ·        synthetic organic and organometallic chemistry (synthesis, purification and characterisation of substrates, products, ligands and catalysts using several techniques);·        enantioselective catalysis (with both transition metals and organocatalysts, and using HTE);·        supramolecular chemistry (study of non-covalent interactions in solution and in the solid state);·        mechanistic elucidation using experimental and computational tools (e.g., kinetic studies and DFT calculations for homogeneous catalytic reactions);·        written and oral scientific literacy.You will participate in weekly group meetings and problem sessions, and have the chance to attend group and departmental social activities. You will also benefit from our regular departmental seminar programme,  and present your work at national and international conferences, in this way refining your communication skills and engaging with other scientists from academia and industry. Tailored mentoring and enthusiastic support to reach your career goals and improve your skill set will be provided by your primary supervisor, the whole Franchino group, the Chemistry Department and the University (e.g., Durham Centre for Academic Development, Careers & Enterprise Hub).Details·        Fully funded PhD scholarship for 48 months, including tuition fees, at EPSRC rate (i.e., you will not pay university fees, and will receive a non-taxable stipend of £19,237 per year).·        Open to UK, EU and international candidates, all nationalities welcome.·        Ideal starting date January 2025, with a later start also possible. How to applyYou must hold a Master degree or equivalent in Chemistry or a related subject, or obtain it before the end of October 2024.To apply, please send to Dr Allegra Franchino ([email protected]) by Friday 27th September 23:59 CET (1) a cover letter detailing your profile and motivation, (2) a CV including contact details of 2 academic referees, (3) grades from Bachelor and Master degrees (or equivalent). Online interviews will be held on 10th and 11th October 2024.