Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Biomimetic Synthetic Organic Chemistry

This postdoctoral position at the University of Southampton focuses on advancing biomimetic synthesis of complex natural products, particularly meroterpenoids, using cascade reactions inspired by biosynthetic pathways. The successful candidate will work under Dr. Jonathan George, leveraging expertise in organic synthesis, reaction optimisation, and structural characterisation. The project combines total synthesis with reaction discovery and mechanistic investigation, offering advanced training and opportunities for collaboration with computational chemists and natural product specialists. The role is ideal for researchers passionate about pushing the boundaries of synthetic chemistry and contributing to high-impact publications.

• Conduct advanced research on biomimetic synthesis of complex natural products, particularly meroterpenoids, using cascade reactions inspired by biosynthetic pathways.
• Develop and optimise new synthetic routes, focusing on dearomatisation, rearrangement, and cycloaddition chemistry.
• Perform multi-step organic synthesis, reaction optimisation, purification, and structural characterisation of synthetic products.
• Collaborate with computational chemists and natural product specialists to integrate computational modelling and experimental work.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences and contribute to high-impact publications arising from the project.
• Maintain and contribute to the general running and maintenance of the laboratory.
• Develop mentoring and leadership skills within the research group.