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? 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.

Scope of work:

• developing of new red light-induced reactions;
• determining mechanism of developed reactions based on physicochemical experiments,
• supervising Ph.D. students on a daily bases,
• preparation of manuscripts.

What do we require?

• Ph.D. in organic chemistry or related
• broad knowledge of photochemistry, experience in this field will be an asset;
• experience in developing new catalytic reactions;
• excellent reaction troubleshooting ability;
• strong ability to guide and train students in experiment design and operation, data analysis and interpretation, especially in troubleshooting during the research work;

Other required skills include:

• analysis and interpretation of data, including NMR techniques;
• experience in safe handling of air-sensitive materials;
• effective written and oral communication skills in English.
• Personal skills: strong motivation for scientific work, ambition, creativity, goal-orientation, responsibility, the capability of teamwork, communicativeness, and willingness to learn.

Our offer:

• We offer a post-doctoral position (full-time employment) in the Institute of Organic Chemistry PAS with brutto brutto salary in the amount of 10 000 PLN per month financed from the NSC MAESTRO 12 project.
• The position is for 12 months to start no later than June 1st 2021, with the possibility to be extended up to 44 months total.
• The Institute offers contribution towards private health insurance.
• Career perspectives: the successful candidate will be part of a highly experienced team. He/She will have the possibility to broaden his/her knowledge in photochemistry.

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 03 May 2021.

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

Applications in only one .pdf should include:

• Curriculum vitae, including a list of scientific achievements (scholarships, publications, conference presentations, etc.),
• PhD diploma in English (copy),
• Motivation letter (max. 3500 characters),
• Two recommendation letters from an independent researchers.

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