PhD Position in Organometallic Chemistry
Develop sustainable earth-abundant transition-metal-catalysed reactions for green chemical synthesis at the University of Copenhagen.
Best for:Best for synthetic and organometallic chemists with a strong background in catalysis and a passion for sustainable chemical synthesis.
Overview
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on organic and organometallic chemistry. Working within the newly established Day Research Group and supervised by Assistant Professor Craig S. Day, the project investigates homogeneous transition metal-catalysed reactions utilizing abundant metals like iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, and molybdenum. The research aims to transform feedstock chemicals such as biomass and carbon dioxide into high-value fine chemicals through thermal, electrochemical, and photochemical methods. Candidates will engage in rigorous mechanistic studies, synthetic methodology development, and kinetics to advance sustainable chemical alternatives.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research on novel homogeneous transition metal-catalysed reactions using earth-abundant metals.
- Design and synthesize fine chemicals and target molecules using thermal, electrochemical, and photochemical methods.
- Investigate reaction mechanisms by combining chemical kinetics, organometallic synthesis, and modern method development.
- Complete approximately 30 ECTS credits of relevant PhD coursework and training.
- Author and publish scientific papers in leading international peer-reviewed academic journals.
- Participate in active research environments, including collaborative research stays at foreign institutions.
- Engage in departmental teaching, student supervision, and academic knowledge dissemination activities.
- Write and successfully defend a doctoral thesis based on the completed research project.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science in Chemistry or closely related field equivalent to a Danish master's degree (or Bachelor's degree for the 3+5 integrated scheme)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; strong professional proficiency required
Instruction: English
Publications: Relevant prior publications are viewed favorably but not strictly mandatory.
- Strong theoretical and practical background in organic chemistry or organometallic chemistry
- Demonstrated proficiency in chemical synthesis and methodology development
- Ability to conduct independent experimental research and rigorous data analysis
- Strong motivation and curiosity regarding sustainable chemical technologies
- Effective written and verbal communication skills in English
- Must hold a relevant academic degree equivalent to a Danish master's or bachelor's degree
- Must be accepted and enrolled into the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-30 (Europe/Copenhagen)
Applicants must submit all required application materials in English through the official electronic recruitment system by clicking the apply link. The dossier must include a motivated letter, a comprehensive CV, original or certified academic transcripts and diplomas, and optional publication lists and reference letters.
- Motivated letter of application
- Curriculum vitae
- BSc and MSc diplomas and transcripts of records
- Publication list
- Reference letters
Contact
Craig S. Day· Assistant Professor
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