PhD Studentship – Investigating Activation Pathways of Industrially Critical Pd Cross-Coupling Pre-Catalysts

Johnson-Matthey are interested in the design, synthesis and catalytic activity of palladium pre-catalysts for application in industrially-critical cross-coupling reactions (such as Suzuki-Miyaura and Buchwald-Hartwig cross-coupling reactions). The mechanisms of activation of palladium pre-catalysts depends on many reaction parameters and exogenous chemical triggers. The primary focus of the project is to improve efficiency and sustainability in industrial processes that are dependent on the use of homogeneous precious palladium pre-catalysts. Mechanistic studies will be used to elucidate pre-catalyst activations pathways, with the global aim to contribute towards the development of greener and more efficient cross-coupling methodologies that can contribute positively to net-Zero targets.

The PhD project will involve chemical synthesis, pre-catalyst screening (aided by high-throughput experimentation and data analysis) and mechanistic studies in organic and organometallic chemistry. Techniques such as IR (in situ), UV-vis, NMR (solution and solid-state), MS and X-ray diffraction methods will be employed routinely. The work will be underpinned by computational studies using Density Functional Theory methodologies. Greener solvent usage and lower energy demand processes will underpin the project.

All project partners recognise the importance of equal participation, progression and success for all. We strive to provide a working, learning, social and living environment that will enable all our staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish and to excel – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

The Department of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN Gold Award and is committed to supporting equality and diversity for all staff and students. The Department strives to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel: https://www.york.ac.uk/chemistry/ed/ . In particular, we recognise the importance of the equal participation of women at all levels in a subject that has traditionally been, and remains, male-dominated.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented across the partnership.

Number of awards: 1

Start date: 6th September 2024

Award duration: 4 years

Application closing date: 31st May 2024

Sponsor:  EPSRC

Name of supervisor/s:

Professor Ian Fairlamb (University of York). Contact Prof. Fairlamb in the first instance ian.fairlamb@york.ac.uk

Eligibility Criteria

You must have, or expect to gain, a minimum 2:1 Honours degree or international equivalent in a subject relevant to the proposed PhD project (usually chemistry or chemical engineering, but please get in touch if you think your qualification may be relevant). Enthusiasm for research, the ability to think and work independently, excellent analytical skills and strong verbal and written communication skills are also essential requirements.

Although we sometimes have a limited number of fully funded international awards available, at this time we can only accept applications from students who qualify for UK home fees.

How to apply

• submit an online PhD in Chemistry application.

You will then need to provide the following information:  

• A ‘Personal Statement’ (this is a mandatory field) – upload a document or write a statement directly in to the application form
• ‘Research Proposal’ – include the title of the project you are applying for
• A CV
• A transcript of your marks
• The details of two academic referees

Contact Details

General enquiries: chemgrad@york.ac.uk or pinz.cdt@ncl.ac.uk