A fully funded 3.5-year PhD Studentship is available in the area of synthetic organic chemistry and catalysis in the newly-established Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University within the group of Dr Vilius Franckevičius. With access to state-of-the-art research laboratories and new NMR and mass spectrometry facilities, the student will have the opportunity to be a part of a rapidly expanding, ambitious and research-intensive Department.

This research project will involve the development of new palladium-catalysed coupling methodologies, the investigation of enantioselective variants of these reactions, as well as detailed mechanistic studies. The synthetic tools we aim to develop are greener and more sustainable than conventional cross-coupling approaches, and have been specifically designed to facilitate the discovery and development of new medicines. Full training and support in synthetic organic chemistry and physical characterisation techniques will be provided.

The successful candidate should have, or expect to receive, a first class or good 2.1 Masters degree (or equivalent) in chemistry from a leading university. A strong interest in organic chemistry is essential. Prior research experience in synthetic chemistry will be an advantage. This studentship is only for EU/UK applicants, who have been ordinarily resident in the UK for the last three years. The studentship will cover fees at the home/EU rate plus the standard maintenance stipend (£13,726 pa for 2013/14). The project start date is expected to be October 2013.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received and the position may be filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Applicants should send a detailed CV, a covering letter stating how they meet the requirements of the studentship, and the names and addresses of two referees to Dr Vilius Franckevičius either by e-mail via the Apply button (v.franckevicius@lancaster.ac.uk) or post (Dr Vilius Franckevičius, Department of Chemistry, Faraday Building, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YB). Informal e-mail enquiries prior to making an application are also welcome.

More information about the Franckevičius research group is available online at http://www.chemistry.lancs.ac.uk/people/vilius-franckevicius