Lightning and Prebiotic Organic Synthesis

About the Project

What are the early steps in the chemical origin of life on Earth, prior to the existence of complex organic molecules and biology? Could Earth have relied on fallen meteorites carrying alien species, or could lightning storms have turned an inorganic Earth and its inert atmosphere into chemically reactive building blocks for early life to emerge, survive, and evolve? Our group tests the “Frankenstein” scenario, experimentally simulating lightning strikes under a prebiotic Earth-like environment on the bench top. We explore reaction pathways uniquely enabled by plasma- and radical- chemistry, as well as the role of reactive interfaces (e.g., mineral surfaces or volcanic aerosols) in radical and electrochemical Organic Synthesis, under geologically plausible conditions. Our current project priorities include experimentally mimicking lightning and radiolysis processes and exploring new reaction pathways for forming C-C and C-N bonds from inert and abundantly available starting materials.

About this opportunity:

Interested in starting a PhD in mid-late 2026 and completing the program in 3.5 years? We are looking for curious, energetic, and self-motivated candidates, whom are passionate about solving interdisciplinary problems.

Requirements:

• a major in Chemistry (with a strong background in organic synthesis)
• a 4-year undergraduate degree (with First Class Honours or with a research thesis), or a Master’s Degree (by research) by early-mid 2026
• prior research experience (preferably with publication)
• excellent communication skills in English (e.g., English native speaker or equivalent)
• an overall GPA of above 3.5/4.0 (or >85/100 or top 10% in your class)
• graduating from one of the top 100 universities worldwide (required), preferably top 50 worldwide.

How to apply:

Please submit this google form and attach your CV for initial screening:

https://forms.gle/4uZvWejpn3CQUhCy9

*no email nor platform enquiry please*

Note that international (non-Australian) candidates should submit their applications 3-6 months in advance. Australian (domestic) candidates are encouraged to apply >2 months in advance.

More info about the Jiang Research Group: www.hjj-group.com

Note:

• Please make sure that you meet all requirements specified above before submission.
• If you pass initial screening, you will likely receive an email from me to request more info within 2-3 weeks after applying.
• If you don't hear back >1 month after applying, that means you did not pass initial screening. Due to the large volume of applications that we receive on a daily basis, please do not send any follow-up email nor platform enquiry, otherwise your email may be considered as spam and will be blocked by our server.

Funding Notes

Note this project requires students to be citizens of EU countries, UK, USA, Canada, Singapore, Australia, or New Zealand.