Fraunhofer-Institut für Chemische Technologie
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PhD Position in Sustainable Organic Photocatalyst Development and Organic Photochemistry Center for the Transformation of Chemistry in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Financed PhD position with E13 TVöD (Bund) at 67%. The position includes public-sector employment conditions and social benefits, including 30 days of vacation based on a five-day workweek, annual special payments, additional pension benefits through VBL, and a subsidy for a public transport job ticket. The position is for three years.
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Fraunhofer-Institut für Chemische Technologie
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About this position
The Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) in Leipzig, Germany, is seeking a PhD candidate to join the Sofiadis group and develop sustainable organic photocatalysts for circular chemistry.
The project addresses the limited use of organic photocatalysts in synthetic chemistry and aims to replace heavy-metal-based photocatalytic complexes with more sustainable organic alternatives. The researcher will design new photocatalysts and investigate their reactivity in organic reactions that support renewable-feedstock functionalization and more circular chemical processes.
The PhD work will involve studying modern photochemistry, developing experimental plans, carrying out organic synthesis and photochemical experiments, applying modern analytical techniques, and collecting and analyzing data. The candidate will also prepare scientific reports, literature summaries, and manuscripts, and present research findings at conferences and within the CTC.
The CTC is a newly founded national research hub bringing together chemistry, physics, engineering, data science, and social sciences. The researcher will work in an interdisciplinary and international environment and collaborate with teams working in automation, data-driven chemistry, and polymer chemistry. The center offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and broad scientific and economic networks.
Funding details
Financed PhD position with E13 TVöD (Bund) at 67%. The position includes public-sector employment conditions and social benefits, including 30 days of vacation based on a five-day workweek, annual special payments, additional pension benefits through VBL, and a subsidy for a public transport job ticket. The position is for three years.
What's required
A master's degree or equivalent in Chemistry or a related discipline, or expected completion soon; an excellent academic record; written and verbal English communication skills; and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Experience in organic synthesis, photochemistry, radical chemistry, sustainable chemistry, and catalysis is highly valued. Applicants must submit a CV, academic transcripts and degree certificates, a motivation letter, and contact information for at least one academic reference.
How to apply
Submit your CV, academic transcripts and degree certificates, motivation letter, and contact information for at least one academic reference through the online application portal by November 30, 2026.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.