About the Project
In polymer mechanochemistry, polymers are used to pull on small molecules to trigger unusual chemical transformations.[1] This concept has led to the development of mechanophores (force responsive molecules) for various applications including damage reporting, controlled release, and catalysis. In the latter case, catalysis is promoted under the stimulation of mechanical force. Such mechanocatalysts are used in a variety of applications such as materials self-healing and the synthesis of small…
molecules. Most mechanocatalyst are centred on metal complexes,[2] but we have recently described organic systems based on interlocked and non-interlocked architectures.[3-5] However, most mechanocatalysts are limited in scope and activity.
In this project you will build and study a new rotaxane mechanocatalyst. You will investigate its activation in solution, using ultrasounds, and in bulk by compression and grinding, and explore its catalytic activity and scope. This project could lead to the development of self-healing materials and to the creation of chemical systems able to perform complex synthetic tasks.
You will be trained in synthetic organic, polymer, and supramolecular chemistry.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply:
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships. If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Chemistry OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Chemistry. Previous research experience in synthetic organic chemistry or supramolecular chemistry is desirable.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.
References
- De Bo, G. Macromolecules 53, 7615–7617 (2020).
- Piermattei, A., Karthikeyan, S. & Sijbesma, R. P. Nat Chem 1, 133–137 (2009).
- Chen, L., Nixon, R. & De Bo, G. Nature 628, 320–325 (2024).
- Ieong, A. & De Bo, G. ACS Catal. 16, 2891–2896 (2026).
- Deng, D. et al. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. e2653602 (2026) doi:10.1002/anie.2653602.