Overview

Do you want to help shape the future of chemical synthesis? We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join a newly funded NWO project focused on developing catalytic cascade C–H activation reactions for the rapid construction of complex molecular ring systems. Working at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry, organometallic catalysis, ligand design, and mechanistic studies, you will develop new palladium-catalysed transformations and uncover the fundamental principles that govern their reactivity and selectivity. Your research will contribute to the development of efficient synthetic methods relevant to pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

Join the Team

We are looking for a PhD candidate who will play a central role in a newly funded NWO project aimed at developing catalytic cascade C–H activation reactions for the efficient construction of complex molecular ring systems.

You will join the Fernández Ibáñez Group at the Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, and work at the interface of synthetic organic chemistry, organometallic catalysis, ligand design, and mechanistic studies. The project focuses on the development of novel palladium-catalysed transformations that enable the direct conversion of simple starting materials into complex molecular architectures relevant to pharmaceuticals, natural products, and other bioactive compounds.

In addition to developing new catalytic methodologies, you will investigate the fundamental mechanisms underlying these reactions, providing insight into catalyst performance, C–H activation pathways, and the factors governing reactivity and selectivity.

Your Tasks

• Design and develop novel palladium-catalysed C–H activation and cascade reactions for complex ring systems
• Synthesize and characterize new ligands, catalysts, and organic substrates
• Conduct mechanistic investigations (kinetics, spectroscopy, isotopic labelling, computational tools where applicable)
• Analyze reactions using NMR, GC-MS, HPLC and optimize conditions for yield and scope
• Publish and present research results in journals and conferences
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary research team

Your Profile

• Master’s degree (or near completion) in Chemistry
• Strong background in organic chemistry, organometallic chemistry, or catalysis
• Hands-on laboratory experience in multi-step organic synthesis and purification
• Interest in reaction mechanisms and catalytic method development
• Familiarity (or willingness to learn) NMR, GC-MS, HPLC and analytical methods
• Independent, curious, collaborative, and strong communication skills in English

What We Offer

• Contract: 4 years (initial 18 months, extension after evaluation)
• Working hours: 38 hours/week (full-time)
• Salary: €3,059 (year 1) → €3,881 (year 4)
• Start date: preferably by September 1
• Includes 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% year-end bonus

Additional benefits: 232 holiday hours/year + extra holidays (Christmas–New Year period), Training courses (teaching, leadership, time management, stress handling), Parental leave and partner leave options, Home office setup options, Pension via ABP (two-thirds employer contribution), Option to learn Dutch, Possible 30% tax ruling (for eligible international candidates)