PhD Studentship: Mechanically Interlocked Chiral Molecules for Sensing and Catalysis

Background

The stereoselective synthesis of chiral organic molecules is one of the core challenges in synthetic organic chemistry. Mechanically interlocked molecules such as rotaxanes and catenanes can be chiral even when their individual components are not, a feature of their structures that is attracting increasing attention (1). The Goldup Group (https://golduplab.org/) at the University of Birmingham have pioneered the synthesis and study of such “mechanically chiral molecules”. They have developed the first methods to synthesise the enantiomers of chiral rotaxanes and catenanes (e.g., refs 2,3,4) and used these to develop enantioselective catalysts (5) and sensors. A key advantage of mechanically chiral molecules is that threading one molecule through another creates an unusual, crowded environment, a feature that is increasingly being exploited in catalysis (6).

The project

The successful candidate will join a vibrant, diverse group of researchers to study the applications of mechanically chiral molecules as enantioselective ligands, organocatalysts and sensors. To do this, they will apply the Goldup Group’s existing methodologies for the synthesis of chiral catenane and rotaxanes, as well as developing new synthetic methodologies as required. The ideal candidate will be excited by the challenge of synthesising molecules stereoselectively and the investigation of their properties and applications. There will also be opportunities to collaborate with computational chemists to understand the molecular origin of catalyst and sensor performance.

The Goldup Group

Research in the Goldup Group at the University of Birmingham focusses on the synthesis, properties and applications of mechanically interlocked molecules such as rotaxanes and catenanes. This work takes place at the interface of synthetic organic and supramolecular chemistry and collaborations with a range of other disciplines from materials science to chemical biology.

Training and mentoring

The successful candidate will receive training in advanced synthetic organic chemistry techniques, catalysis and supramolecular chemistry and other specialist areas as required by their project. They will gain extensive experience of a range of analytical techniques including advanced NMR, single crystal x-ray diffraction and HPLC analysis. Interested candidates will also have the opportunity to gain experience of computational modelling. They will be mentored by Professor Goldup to improve their scientific writing, presentation skills and ability to design and execute new scientific projects. Completing a PhD in the Goldup Group will prepare students for leadership roles in scientific research, and across the scientific sector more generally.

Application process

Candidates should normally have, or expect to receive, a first or upper second (2.1) class Masters degree (or equivalent). Interested candidates should contact Professor Goldup by email in the first instance with a copy of their CV and a covering letter outlining their research interests. The School of Chemistry is keen to achieve a gender and diversity balance across the School and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The School holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, which recognises its work in promoting women’s careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEM) in higher education.

This 3.5 year studentship includes a tax-free stipend and tuition fees at the standard UKRI rate (stipend was £19,237 academic year 2024-2025). We offer a fully-funded programme of integrated research and skills training. Support for conference attendance and research materials, including a laptop for the duration of your studies, will be available. Due to funding restrictions, applicants not eligible for UK home fee status will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

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