PhD Studentship - Radicals and Reactive Intermediates in Heavy Main-Group Chemistry

A fully funded PhD studentship is available for a highly motivated, outstanding chemist with a passion for inorganic synthesis and spectroscopy.

Heavy pnictogen compounds have received considerable attention in recent years as competent reagents for two-electron redox chemistry and the activation of small molecules. In comparison, the area of heavy main-group radical compounds remains relatively underdeveloped. Their electronic structures are typically affected by strong spin-orbit coupling effects, leading to fascinating spectroscopic features and reactivities. The capability of heavy main-group elements to stabilise open-shell fragments in their vicinity remains equally underexplored but holds great promise for the development of atom-transfer reactions with small molecules.

In this PhD project, we aim to access open-shell main-group species either by redox reactions (authentic main-group radicals) or via the formation of open-shell fragments (carbenes, nitrenes and higher homologues) in their direct vicinity. The electronic structures of the synthesised compounds will be elucidated by spectroscopy, and reactivity studies towards small molecules will be conducted. This will require the appointed student to undertake inorganic synthesis (Schlenk and glovebox techniques), followed by characterisation using a range of spectroscopic and analytical techniques (NMR, IR, UV/vis, EPR, SQUID, XAS and scXRD). The focus at the start of the project will be on bismuth chemistry, but extension towards other heavy elements, e.g., antimony, tin, lead, indium or thallium, will be targeted based on the results obtained.

In addition to training in the above techniques, the student will receive training in scientific writing, oral and poster presentations, lab management, lab safety and other transferable skills. The student will benefit from co-supervision by experts in inorganic synthesis and magnetism. The project offers opportunities for publication in leading international journals, presentation of results at national and international conferences, and collaboration with researchers across the UK and Europe.
This project is expected to start in late September / early October 2027.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First Class or high Upper Second Class degree in Chemistry or a closely related discipline. Prior experience with synthetic chemistry under inert conditions is essential, while experience in spectroscopy of paramagnetic compounds is advantageous but not required.

To apply, please contact the main supervisor, Dr. Josh Abbenseth. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

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