Summary
The Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science at the University of Copenhagen, is inviting applications for a Postdoc position in Transition-Metal Catalysis & Organometallic Chemistry. This project is part of the ERC Starting grant Light-CAT (Ligand-Driven C–H Activation: Sustainable Catalysis by Design) and focuses on developing sustainable, earth-abundant transition-metal-catalysed reactions for fine-chemical synthesis. The successful candidate will join the research group of Assistant Professor Craig S. Day.
Designation
Postdoc
Research Area
- Transition-Metal Catalysis
- Organometallic Chemistry
- Sustainable Catalysis
- C-H Activation
- Synthetic Organic Chemistry
- Methodology Development
- Mechanistic Chemistry
- Electrochemistry
Location
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
Eligibility/Qualification
- A PhD degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as transition-metal catalysis or organometallic chemistry.
- Proficiency in English.
- Background in transition-metal catalysis is essential.
- Additional background in synthetic organic chemistry, methodology development, organometallic chemistry, mechanistic chemistry, or electrochemistry is beneficial.
Job Description
The Postdoc will be responsible for conducting research within the project “Sustainable, earth-abundant transition-metal-catalysed reactions for the synthesis of fine-chemicals”. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing novel homogeneous transition metal-catalysed reactions using earth-abundant metal catalysts (e.g., Mo, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu).
- Designing new classes of ancillary ligands to facilitate novel reactivity.
- Transforming abundant feedstock chemicals (e.g., CO2, biomass) into high-value products using thermal, electrochemical, and photochemical methods.
- Employing a mechanistically guided approach to reaction development, combining kinetics, organometallic synthesis, and method development.
- Contributing to the group’s research on fundamental organometallic chemistry to inform rational reaction design for new catalytic methodologies addressing sustainability challenges.
- Teaching duties will also be part of the role.
- The Postdoc will work closely with Assistant Professor Craig S. Day and his team, receiving consistent feedback, assistance, and support.
How to Apply
Applications, written in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking the ‘Apply for position’ link. The application package must include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
- Research plan – a description of current and future research plans
- Complete publication list
- Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers
Interviews are expected to be held in Week 47/48.
Last Date for Apply
October 30th, 2026, 23:59 GMT +1
Apply Link
Apply for position (Link provided on the source page)
