Rational Development of Organocaesium Chemistry

Applications are invited for a fully funded 42-month PhD studentship sponsored by the Leverhulme Trust to start in October 2024.

Numerous chemicals including manufactured agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals and natural products are made using organolithium reagents. In 2020 the European Commission added Li to the Critical Raw Materials list for low-carbon technologies. With increasing exploitation of low-carbon technologies for a net zero emission society, demands for Li are increasing rapidly and will continue to do so, hence the availability of organolithium reagents may become more limited in the future. For assured greater sustainability, new alternative organometallic reagents are essential.

The vision is to develop fundamental organocaesium chemistry making uni-metallic and hetero-bi-metallic compounds via rational synthetic design, rather than empiricism, bringing it into the mainstream of organometallic chemistry, in both stoichiometric and catalytic applications. Underpinned by preliminary proof of concept results, this project will open the minds and laboratories of the chemistry community to the vast, untapped potential of organocaesium compounds.

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity of developing a cutting-edge programme of research within the important area of sustainability and have, or expect to obtain, a first class honours or 2.1 degree in Chemistry, please contact Professor R. E. Mulvey for more information.