About this role
Cambridge CARES is the University of Cambridge presence in Singapore, sponsored by NRF CREATE program. It leads the SM3 project, collaborating with NTU, NUS, University of Cambridge, and EPFL. The project develops novel approaches for de-fossilised routes to complex functional molecules and materials from net-zero feedstocks.
Join the Gaunt group as a postdoctoral researcher in synthetic chemistry at CARES, integrated with the University of Cambridge team. Design and develop catalytic activation modes leading to new synthetic transformations. Leverage expertise to control structure and function in bioactive complex molecules, expanding chemical space.
Work in the Synthesis Team supervised by Prof. Gaunt, collaborating with Profs. Ming Joo Koh (NUS) and Shunsuke Chiba (NTU). Supported by the AI team co-led by Profs. Philippe Schwaller (EPFL), Alexei Lapkin, and Markus Kraft (Cambridge/CARES). Explore novel synthesis technologies like photoelectrochemistry, sonochemistry, and mechanochemistry.
Position available from January 2025 for one year initially, up to four years total. Thrive in a vibrant, fast-paced environment with world-class scientists and engineers. Gain opportunities for knowledge and skills development in cutting-edge synthetic methodologies.
Requirements
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry
- Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry
- Demonstrated track record of high-quality research
- Expertise in catalyst-controlled reactivity
- Experience designing reactions for complex bioactive molecules
- Proficiency in synthetic methodologies for molecular materials
- Ability to leverage catalytic systems for molecular structure control
Responsibilities
- Design and develop catalytic activation modes that lead to new synthetic transformations
- Explore novel chemical transformations for conversion of net-zero feedstocks to building blocks for pharma and agrochem
- Develop novel synthetic methods for conversion of building blocks into end-use functional molecules
- Apply novel synthesis technologies including photoelectrochemistry, sonochemistry, and mechanochemistry
- Utilize advanced research methods such as AI, chemoinformatics, and high-throughput synthesis
- Conduct process metrics including LCA and technoeconomic analysis
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams on sustainable molecule synthesis
Benefits
- Stimulating working environment with friendly, highly motivated colleagues
- Opportunities to develop and implement new ideas in a creative environment
- One-year contract in the first instance, extendable up to 4 years
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