** Two funded PhD positions available **
in the physical organic chemistry group of Dr. C. Merten at Ruhr
University Bochum, Germany (www.mertenlab.de).
*Project 1: Matrix-isolation VCD spectroscopy*
The isolation of molecules in solid rare gas matrices is a frequently
used technique to study photochemical reactions such as
photo-isomerizations or photofragmentation reactions. We have combined
the MI-technique with VCD spectroscopy and recently shown that MI-VCD
spectra can be recorded for photoisomerization products of chiral
molecules (ANIE 56 (2017) 1925). In this project, we want to build up a
new instrument to record MI-VCD spectra in para-hydrogen matrices to
later study photochemical reactions of chiral molecules and chiral
radicals.
*Project 2: Enantiodiscrimination via halogen bonding*
Halogen bonds (XBs) occur between the electrophilic end of a
carbon-halogen bond and Lewis bases and are predicted to be potentially
as strong as hydrogen bonds. They are of constantly growing interest as
directing interactions in catalysis and supramolecular chemistry.
Likewise, they have become important design elements for the development
of pharmaceutically active compounds. In this project, we want to use
cryospectroscopy (CryoVCD: PCCP 21 (2019) 6582-6587), which involves the
measurement of VCD spectra for solutions of chiral solutes in liquid
rare gases, to characterize XBs between chiral molecules. These
experiments will allow us to characterize the stereochemical aspects of
the interaction of chiral XB-donors and acceptors in solution phase
without interference with potentially stronger solute-solvent interactions.
*Requirements*
Both projects are focused on VCD spectroscopy, but are generally
interdisciplinary as they require interest in both spectroscopic
developments and fundamental questions related to organic reactivity. In
the first project, the candidate will set up the pH2-instrumentation and
initially focus on MI-VCD studies on small molecules before moving on to
photochemical reactions. In the second project, the candidate will be
deeply involved in the further development of CryoVCD spectroscopy.
For both projects some experience with vibrational spectroscopy and
matrix isolation as well as DFT-based spectra calculations will be
beneficial. Therefore, suitable candidates should have a solid
background in physical or physical organic chemistry and be interested
in experimental laboratory work at the interface between organic
chemistry and spectroscopy. The candidates should be highly
self-motivated and good teamworkers.
Any enquiries as well as applications with all usual documents
(certificates, transcripts, ....), a meaningful(!) motivation letter for
either of the projects and contact details of 2-3 referees should be
send by email to: [log in to unmask]
Applications will be considered until a suitable candidate is found.
--
Dr. Christian Merten
Ruhr-University Bochum
Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry
44801 Bochum, Germany
Phone: +49 234 32 24529
Email: [log in to unmask]
Web: www.mertenlab.de
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