Applications are invited for a postdoctoral researcher position (Synthetic organic chemist) in the laboratory of Prof. Wolfgang Schmitt in the School of Chemistry and at the AMBER Materials Science Centre, Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin.
Over the last decade, amine-functionalized porous materials have been used in adsorption processes for the CO2 capture from air (Direct Air Capture - DAC). Among possible materials, amine-functionalized macroporous organic polymers are of high scientific interest. The project aims to develop new, state-of-art, macroporous polymers with exceptional CO2 adsorption characteristics. Materials of interest include functionalized polystyrenes, polyamides, polyvinylalcohols, etc. whose structures and compositions will be optimized to facilitate the adsorption of CO2 under atmospheric conditions. The project will include targeted polymer syntheses and post-synthetic functionalizations of commercially available polymers. Other new emergent porous, amine-functionalised organic, inorganic or hybrid materials may also be considered.
The project has a strong focus on commercial applications and is part of a €2.5 Mio European Innovation Council grant which aims to progress a new DAC technology which was developed by Prof. Wolfgang Schmitt and Dr. Sebastien Vaesen at Trinity College.
Standard Duties and Responsibilities: The successful researcher will conduct research in the outlined areas of synthetic organic chemistry focusing on the synthesis, functionalization and characterisation of porous polymers for CO2 capture. Activities and duties include:
• Synthesis, functionalisation and characterisation of amine-functionalized porous polymers and related systems;
• Synthesis of other new emergent porous, amine-functionalised organic materials;
• Sample analyses using NMR FT-IR and Raman spectroscopy, CHN and thermogravimetric analyses, etc.
• Adsorption analyses using BET (N2 77 K) and CO2 isotherm measurements;
• Provision of guidance to undergraduate students in the research laboratory;
• Preparation of manuscripts for publication;
• Preparation of patent applications;
• Research project management;
The candidate will work closely with the other team members, sharing knowledge and skills with team members.
Research Group/Department/School: Prof. Wolfgang Schmitt’s Group, School of
Chemistry/CRANN, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin
Funding Information: The positions are funded by the European Innovation Council. Appointment will be made on the SFI Researcher Salary Scale on the New Post-Doctoral Researcher (Level 2A) or Research Assistant scale;
https://www.sfi.ie/funding/sfi-policies-and-guidance/budget- finance-rel… depending on experience.
Duration/ Hours of Work: Initially 24 months; full-time;
Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. degree in an area of Chemistry underpinning the project areas.
Knowledge & Experience:
• Extensive expertise in organic chemistry is required;
• Expertise in the synthesis, modification and characterization of organic polymers is required;
• Expertise in underpinning analytical techniques and characterizations of organic polymers is required;
• Expertise in the area of porous materials and sample characterisation using adsorption techniques will be of advantage;
• Excellent presentation, language and communication skills are required;
• The candidate should have expertise in relation to the preparation of the manuscripts for publication;
• Excellent word processing, data presentation and IT skills are required;
Application Procedure:
The application should include:
• a Curriculum Vitae including the names and contact details of 2 referees and
• a short cover letter
Applications from all backgrounds are encouraged, especially from any groups underrepresented in STEM disciplines. Female candidates are encouraged to apply. Informal enquiries are welcomed.
Documents should be submitted to Prof. Wolfgang Schmitt (
[email protected]) and Dr. Sebastien Vaesen (
[email protected]). Please use EIC-CHEM in your email title.
