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Jan O. Jeppesen
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2 days ago
PhD Position in Organic and Supramolecular Chemistry: Electrically Controlled Cargo Release in [2]Rotaxanes via Mechanochemical Retro Diels-Alder Reaction University of Southern Denmark in Denmark
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Funded by a DFF-Research Project 1 grant from the Independent Research Fund Denmark – Natural Sciences. Salaried PhD scholar position under the relevant Danish collective agreement.
Deadline
Dec 9, 2026
Country
Denmark
University
University of Southern Denmark
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Keywords
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About this position
This PhD project at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark explores how electrically controlled molecular motion can be translated into mechanical force and, ultimately, covalent bond cleavage. The research focuses on the design and synthesis of electroactive molecular machines built around [2]rotaxanes that combine a redox-active monopyrrolotetrathiafulvalene (MPTTF) unit with a cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) (CBPQT4+) macrocycle and a furan-based cargo-bearing unit.
The core idea is that electrochemical oxidation of the MPTTF component should trigger macrocycle shuttling along the axle, generating enough mechanical force to promote a retro-Diels-Alder reaction and release a covalently attached cargo molecule. The project is designed to establish a direct mechanistic link between redox-driven molecular motion, force generation, and bond cleavage in artificial molecular machines.
The successful PhD candidate will carry out extensive synthetic organic chemistry, prepare and characterize mechanically interlocked molecules, and study their electrochemical and mechanical behavior. The work combines synthesis with analysis using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, UV-vis spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry.
The position is supervised by Professor Jan O. Jeppesen and is embedded in the interdisciplinary environment of the Faculty of Science in Odense, where chemistry is closely linked with physics and pharmacy. The project aims to advance the fundamental understanding of force transduction in molecular systems and of electrically driven controlled molecular release.
Funding details
Funded by a DFF-Research Project 1 grant from the Independent Research Fund Denmark – Natural Sciences. Salaried PhD scholar position under the relevant Danish collective agreement.
What's required
Applicants should hold a Master's degree for the 5+3 programme or a Bachelor's degree for the 4+4 programme in chemistry or a closely related field. A strong background in synthetic organic chemistry is preferred. The candidate should have extensive practical experience in synthetic organic chemistry, a strong interest in supramolecular chemistry and molecular machines, experience with standard analytical and spectroscopic characterization techniques, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and good written and spoken English. Previous experience in supramolecular chemistry, mechanically interlocked molecules, or tetrathiafulvalene chemistry is an advantage but not required.
How to apply
Apply electronically via the 'Apply now' link. Submit a declaration of interest in English with a motivation letter, CV, diplomas and transcripts, and contact details for at least two referees. Read the 'How to apply: FAQ' information before applying and ensure all documents are in PDF format.
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Professors
Professor at University of Southern Denmark
Denmark
Research Interests
Organic Chemistry
Redox Biology
Electrochemistry
Supramolecular Chemistry
Materials Science
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.