Applications are invited for a 3.5-year PhD studentship based in the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, supervised by Dr Pawel Dydio, to work in the field of synthetic organic chemistry and catalysis. The project will be focused on mechanistically driven discovery of new valuable (multi)catalytic transformations and addressing the limitations of key catalytic processes by elucidating their mechanistic features. For recent articles from the Dydio group that provide background to these, see: Nature Catal. 2019, 2, 114; J.Am.Chem.Soc., 2020, 142, 18251; Chem Catal. 2022, 2, 762; Angew.Chem.Int.Ed. 2022, e202116406; Angew.Chem.Int.Ed. 2024, e202408418; Angew.Chem.Int.Ed. 2024, e202404684; and Angew.Chem.Int.Ed. 2024, e202410616.
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual capable of thinking and working independently. Applicants must have (or expect to obtain) at least the equivalent of a UK upper second-class Master’s degree in a relevant subject such as Chemistry. Ideally, the candidate will have a strong background in organic chemistry and transition metal catalysis. Practical experience of synthetic organic chemistry, homogenous transition metal catalysis, or organometallic chemistry in a research environment would be beneficial.
The studentship will commence in October 2025 and will provide a maintenance grant at the UKRI national rate, and tuition fees at the UK/home rate. Non-UK applicants will be considered if they are able to fund the overseas fees differential, or if they are awarded a suitable scholarship. Full details of the University’s entrance requirements and scholarships are specified on the following link: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/
To apply, please submit an application through the University Applicant Portal: https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/pcchpdpch for the course “PhD in Chemistry”, naming Dr Pawel Dydio as potential supervisor.
For queries relating to your application or the application process, please contact Jenny Zhang via email at pd552@cam.ac.uk.