Physical Organic Chemistry PhD

The School of Chemistry has scientific research team in Physical Organic Chemistry, with a wide variety of research techniques and topics being studied. The team’s mission is to make molecules for a purpose and then study their physical properties in line with the required use of the new compounds. Underpinning this breadth of applications is the detailed, quantitative understanding of the fundamental properties and reactions and interactions of organic molecules. The topics being investigated in Physical Organic Chemistry are diverse, including the development of new methods for catalysing reactions better understanding of organic reactions in aqueous solutions and in biological systems biosensors and directed assembly of functional multicomponent systems equipment and machine-learning code for automated reactivity studies biophysical assays to test potential new pharmaceuticals. The techniques used in the research are as widely varying as the topics being studied. In the laboratory, research may involve using combinations of: organic synthesis and characterisation using, e.g., 1H-NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and HPLC. biophysical studies using, e.g., isothermal titration calorimetry, UV-visible and circular dichroism spectroscopy, creoptix wave, switchSense heliX studies of reaction kinetics using, e.g., UV-visible, circular dichroism or 1H-NMR spectroscopy or HPLC equipment development, e.g., development of computer-controlled custom pumps and visible light detectors.

Applicants are required to have a BSc 2.2 or above, or equivalent, in Chemistry or in a related subject.