The Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC), in collaboration with the Sofiadis group, is offering a fully funded PhD Position in the Development of Sustainable Organic Photocatalysts (m/f/d) based in Leipzig, Germany. This 3-year doctoral research position aims to design innovative organic photocatalysts capable of enabling circular and sustainable processes in chemical synthesis, advancing the global transition toward a circular economy.
Overview of the Position
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) |
| Host Institution | Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) |
| Research Group | Sofiadis Group |
| Location | Leipzig, Germany |
| Duration | 3 Years (Starting February 1, 2027) |
| Remuneration / Funding | Fully Funded (E13 TVöD Bund, 67%) |
| Working Languages | English, German |
| Application Deadline | November 30, 2026 |
Research Area
The research position is situated in the fields of Organic Chemistry, Synthetic Photochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Sustainable Catalysis.
Project Description
The Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) is a newly founded national research hub in Germany, supported by €1.25 billion in funding, dedicated to redefining chemistry to address global sustainability challenges. Within the Sofiadis group, the doctoral project focuses on Development of sustainable, organic photocatalysts capable of facilitating organic reactions that aim at closing the loop of circularity in chemistry.
While organic synthetic photochemistry has expanded rapidly, organic photocatalysts comprise only a small fraction of the synthetic toolkit. This project aims to address this bottleneck with two primary objectives:
- Designing new organic photocatalysts to replace conventional heavy-metal-based complexes.
- Exploring the reactivity and reaction pathways of newly engineered photocatalysts for sustainable feedstock functionalization.
Key responsibilities include conducting experimental organic synthesis, employing modern analytical instrumentation, analyzing experimental data, preparing manuscripts and conference presentations, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Candidates must fulfill the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry or a closely related discipline (candidates near completion are also eligible).
- Demonstrated experience or strong academic background in organic synthesis, photochemistry, radical chemistry, catalysis, or sustainable chemistry.
- An excellent academic track record.
- Strong written and spoken communication skills in English.
- Capacity for both independent research and effective collaboration in international, multidisciplinary teams.
What the Fellowship Offers
- Employment contract under the German public sector collective agreement: E13 TVöD (Bund) at 67%.
- Full social benefits including 30 days of annual leave (five-day week), annual special payments, and company pension scheme (VBL).
- Subsidized public transportation job ticket.
- Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure and extensive scientific and industrial networks.
- An inclusive, dynamic, and international working environment.
Required Application Documents
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic degree certificates and full transcripts of records.
- Letter of Motivation detailing your scientific interests, pertinent experience, and rationale for applying to this specific PhD project.
- Contact information of at least one academic referee.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their comprehensive application documents via the official CTC online application portal. Early applications are encouraged.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline to submit applications is November 30, 2026.
Apply Link
To submit your application or learn more about the research hub, please visit:
- Apply Online via the Official CTC Job Portal
- Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) Official Website
