PhD Studentship: Mimicking Cyanide Biomimetic Active Site Mimics

Project Supervisor - Dr Joseph Wright

Hydrogenases are enzymes which can interconvert protons and dihydrogen with almost no overpotential. Whilst the activity of the enzymes rivals that of platinum, the mass of enzyme needed means they are not feasible for use in energy applications. We therefore need to create mimics, but achieving similar activity in these model complexes is a significant challenge. 

Mimicking hydrogenase enzymes offer significant promise in the development of sustainable hydrogen-generation catalysts. The natural systems contain metal cofactors ligated by cyanide, a significant contributor to their unique reactivity. The reactivity of ‘bare’ cyanide means that it is far too vulnerable to protonation in the absence of the protein. We therefore need models containing cyanide surrogates: imparting similar reactivity at the metal but without the downsides for complex stability. In contrast to cyanide (C≡N–), the negative charge in the cyaphide (–C≡P) ligand is centred on carbon. 

Here, we will exploit this crucial difference in electronic structure in creating novel analogues of the hydrogenase enzyme active sites. By combining the unique reactivity of the cyaphide ligand with our experience in developing biomimetic centres, we will both expand understanding of the fundamental coordination chemistry of the under-explored cyaphide ligand and access catalytic turnover in energy-relevant organometallics. 

Entry Requirements: Acceptable first degree - Chemistry, 2:1. 

Start Date: 1 October 2026

Additional Funding Information

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years.

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