"RED LIGHT – A TOOL FOR ORGANIC AND BIOORTHOGONAL CHEMISTRY"

Objective:

Are you interested to tackle the challenges associated with photocatalysis in a coherent and comprehensive fashion? To unveil general reactivity modes of diazo compounds under visible light-irradiation, we will develop their solar-driven reactions and determine reactive intermediates (singlet or triplet carbenes, radicals, others) generated during these processes. Applications are invited for a post-doc position in a research grant "Sustainable photochemical transformations of diazo reagents as a source of reactive intermediates" funded by the National Science Centre, Poland.

Are you interested to tackle the challenges associated with photocatalysis in a coherent and comprehensive fashion? Are you curious to make important contributions to the applicability and scalability of photocatalytic processes through the design of new photocatalytic methodologies with the ultimate goal of using them for photo-controllable bioorthogonal chemistry? Applications are invited for a post-doc position in a research grant "Red light a tool for organic and biorthogonal chemistry" funded by the National Science Centre, Poland.

Short description of the project:

Photo-controllable bioorthogonal chemistry though appealing for biologist, represents a challenge for chemists as it requires development of reactions that are compatible with biological systems. The vast majority of photochemical reactions are induced either by UV or high-energy visible light irradiation. Red and infra-red is, however, more compatible with biological systems therefore their application is more attractive for bioorthogonal reactions. Such transformations, however, even in the synthetic chemistry toolbox, are scarce. Therefore, the goal of this proposal is to develop a diverse set of chemical reactions driven by red light with the ultimate goal of using them for photo-controllable bioorthogonal chemistry.

We address this challenge by focusing, in the first instance, on devising C−C bond forming reactions induced by red light. Then we will on fine-tune reactions’ parameters so they work in physiological conditions. In the final stage, our Collaborator will test the developed tools on proteins and nucleic acids.

Drawing inspiration from photosynthesis, scientists challenged the use of visible light for the activation of organic molecules and the discovery unknown solar-driven transformations. Plethora of organic compounds have been investigated in terms of their photochemical activity. However, the fact that diazo compounds possess their intrinsic chromophore (-C=N⁺=N^-) puts them in a unique position among many reagents that can absorb visible light and hence are suitable for solar-driven transformations. To date, they are extensively studied in metal catalyzed reactions and proved to undergo a range of unusual transformations, furnishing even complex molecules with impressive stereoselectivities. As traces of toxic metals are unacceptable by pharmaceutical industry, greener methodologies are in high demand.

The main objective of this proposal is to unveil general reactivity modes of diazo compounds under visible light-irradiation. We will develop their solar-driven reactions and determine reactive intermediates (singlet or triplet carbenes, radicals, others) generated during these processes. To this end, we will elaborate direct photolysis of diazo compounds which absorb in the blue region in C-H insertions. For compounds unreactive under visible light-irradiation, photocatalyzed transformations in the presence of a photosensitizer or a photoredox catalyst represent an alternative.

Scope of work:

• developing of new red light-induced reactions;
• determining mechanism of developed reactions based on physicochemical experiments,
• preparation of manuscripts.

What do we require?

• MSc in chemistry or related;
• be a highly motivated university graduate, within 4 years after receiving a relevant MSc degree;
• be excellent in oral and written English with good presentation skills.

Other required skills include:

• strong motivation for scientific work, ambition, creativity, goal-orientation, responsibility, ability to work independently as well as in a group; excellent communications, organization and time management skills, willingness to learn, analytical thinking and critical problem solving skills

Questions?

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Or do you want to know more about our organization? Please contact: Prof. Dorota Gryko, dorota.gryko@icho.edu.pl

Job application

The ICHO PAN is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 10 July 2021.

Applications should be sent to: rekrutacja@icho.edu.pl (please input email subject as ‘Dorota Gryko’)

Applications in only one .pdf should include:

• scientific curriculum vitae, including a list of scientific achievements (scholarships, publications, conference presentations, etc.);
• motivation letter;
• one recommendation letter;
• a transcript of the grades/credits received; during the last stage of studies and grade point average.

The IChO PAN is the party responsible for processing your personal data (the 'controller') within the meaning of the General Data Protection Regulation (‘GDPR’).

The selection procedure includes interview and a reference check. The interview will be done by video calls and include a presentation of your master thesis, and questions from organic chemistry at the master level. Please read the Charter and Code for recruitment