PhD Position in Organometallic Chemistry
Develop sustainable earth-abundant transition-metal catalysts for green chemical synthesis at the University of Copenhagen.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in organic chemistry or related disciplines with a strong interest in homogeneous catalysis and sustainable synthesis.
Overview
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on sustainable organometallic chemistry. Working within the newly established Day research group and supported by the ERC Starting Grant Light-CAT, the successful candidate will investigate homogeneous transition-metal catalysis using earth-abundant metals like iron, cobalt, nickel, and copper. The project combines kinetics, organometallic synthesis, and method development to transform abundant feedstocks such as CO2 and biomass into high-value fine chemicals. Candidates will undertake independent research, complete coursework, disseminate findings in high-impact journals, and actively participate in international collaborations.
What you'll do
- Conduct an independent research project centered on novel homogeneous transition-metal catalysed reactions using earth-abundant metals.
- Synthesise and characterise organometallic compounds and evaluate their catalytic performance in chemical transformations.
- Investigate reaction mechanisms through kinetic studies and methodological development.
- Complete approximately 30 ECTS of PhD-level coursework.
- Participate in teaching, supervision, and academic knowledge dissemination activities.
- Write scientific manuscripts intended for publication in leading peer-reviewed academic journals.
- Draft and successfully defend a doctoral thesis based on the conducted research.
- Engage in active research visits at external collaborative institutions, preferably abroad.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or an equivalent relevant degree
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; strong professional proficiency required
Instruction: English
Publications: Relevant publications are considered an advantage but are not strictly mandated prior to entry.
- Strong background and theoretical knowledge in organic chemistry or organometallic chemistry
- Demonstrated proficiency in English language written and verbal communication
- Ability to conduct independent laboratory experimentation and rigorous scientific analysis
- Curious mindset with a dedicated research interest in sustainable chemical synthesis
- Must hold a qualifying degree equivalent to a relevant Danish master's degree (or bachelor's degree for the integrated 3+5 scheme)
- Must meet the formal admission criteria of the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/Copenhagen)
Prepare all application materials in English and submit them electronically through the university's online recruitment portal before the stated deadline. Ensure your submission includes a motivated letter of application, complete curriculum vitae, original academic transcripts and diplomas, and optional reference letters or publication lists.
- Motivated letter of application
- Curriculum vitae
- BSc diploma and transcript of records
- MSc diploma and transcript of records
- Publication list
- Reference letters
Contact
Craig S. Day· Assistant Professor
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