PhD Position in Organometallic Chemistry
Develop sustainable, earth-abundant transition-metal catalysts for fine-chemical synthesis at the University of Copenhagen.
Best for:Best for chemistry graduates with a strong interest in synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable reaction development.
Overview
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a PhD position focusing on sustainable transition-metal catalysis and organometallic chemistry. Funded by a Sapere Aude research leader grant, the successful candidate will work in the research group led by Assistant Professor Craig S. Day. The project explores homogeneous reactions using earth-abundant metals like iron, cobalt, nickel, and copper to transform feedstock chemicals such as CO2 into high-value products. Applicants will engage in a mechanistically guided approach combining kinetics, organic synthesis, and methodology development.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research in homogeneous transition-metal catalysis and organometallic chemistry under supervision.
- Design and execute novel catalytic methodologies to transform abundant feedstock chemicals like CO2.
- Complete PhD courses corresponding to approximately 30 ECTS credits.
- Participate in active research environments, including a collaborative research stay at another institution abroad.
- Engage in teaching and knowledge dissemination activities within the department.
- Write scientific manuscripts aimed at publication in high-impact international journals.
- Author and defend a doctoral dissertation based on the research findings.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science in Chemistry or closely related field (for regular track) or Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (for integrated track)
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; strong professional proficiency
Instruction: English
Publications: Relevant publications are considered an advantage but are not strictly mandatory upon application.
- Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry, methodology development, or organometallic chemistry
- Proficiency in planning and executing chemical synthesis and reaction optimization
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural research team
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to reaction mechanisms and kinetics
- Applicants must hold an educational qualification equivalent to a relevant Danish master's degree for the regular PhD track, or a bachelor's degree for the integrated track
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-30 (Europe/Copenhagen)
Prepare all required application documents in English, merge or format them appropriately, and submit them electronically through the official University of Copenhagen online recruitment portal by clicking the apply button.
- Motivated letter of application
- CV
- Bachelor and Master diplomas and transcripts of records
- Publication list
- Reference letters
Contact
Craig S. Day· Assistant Professor
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