The University of Namur invites applications for a 24-month postdoctoral position in main-group chemistry, starting June 2026, within the Reactivity, Catalysis and Organometallic (RCO) chemistry research group led by Prof. Guillaume Berionni. This opportunity is part of the ERC consolidator project 'B-yond', funded by the Horizon Europe programme, and is based in the Chemistry Department at the Namur Institute of Structured Matter.

The research focuses on the coordination of ammonia and ammonia surrogates with pyramidal boron Lewis acids. The successful candidate will investigate the activation of small molecules (such as NH3, diazirines, diaziridine, hydrazines, diazo compounds, and N2) using frustrated Lewis pairs based on Lewis superacids. The project involves detailed analysis of reactivity and mechanisms through advanced techniques including NMR spectroscopy, microcalorimetry, and stop-flow spectrophotometry.

Applicants must have a PhD in main-group, organometallic, or coordination chemistry, awarded no more than one year ago. Essential skills include synthesis, preparative purification techniques, and structural characterization of organic molecules (NMR, GC-MS, IR, UV-Vis). Experience with handling highly reactive species (Schlenk-line and glove-box techniques) and characterization of unstable compounds is expected. Candidates should demonstrate autonomy, motivation for fundamental research, proficiency in chemistry software and databases, teamwork, initiative, responsibility, and excellent communication skills in English. Basic knowledge of French is advantageous. Eligibility requires that candidates have not resided or carried out their main activity in Belgium for more than 24 months during the three years preceding the start of the fellowship. Soon-to-be PhD graduates may apply if they will have graduated before the position starts.

The position offers a monthly salary of approximately €3300 after tax, with an initial duration of one year, renewable once. The recruitment process includes a presentation of PhD work and an oral interview, ensuring compliance with gender balance and non-discrimination principles. The research will be conducted in Namur, a historic and vibrant city in the heart of Belgium, close to Brussels.

To apply, candidates should send a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, a two-page summary of their PhD work, and the names and email addresses of three reference persons by email to Prof. Guillaume Berionni by April 15, 2026. For further details, visit the research group website or the project page.