Sandwich complexes of the f-elements as high-temperature single-molecule magnets (2019)

The primary aim of the project is to develop new molecular magnets in which the electronic structure can be modified in a controlled way through synthetic organometallic chemistry, ultimately expanding the family of high-temperature SMMs.

What you get

This is a School of Life Sciences funded position and it covers:

  • UK/EU Tuition fee
  • Stipend of £14,777 per annum (tax-free)
  • Research costs

The studentship is for 42 months and it is open to UK or EU candidates only.

Type of award

Postgraduate Research

PhD project

The project falls broadly into the research field of organometallic chemistry, with a specific focus on the structure, bonding, reactivity and magnetism of f-block sandwich complexes. The project will build on recent ground-breaking results from the Layfield group (see recent publication in Science) in which the first single-molecule magnet (SMM) to show hysteresis above liquid-nitrogen temperatures was described. For the new project, we will extend these findings to new systems based on the ‘sandwich’ structural motif involving lanthanides and uranium.

Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to email Prof. Layfield to discuss the project further.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants will either hold, or expect to graduate in 2019 with, a first-class or upper-second class (2:1) MChem degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry. Candidates for whom English is not their first language will require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any section.

Number of scholarships available

1

Deadline

23 January 2019 0:00

How to apply

Please submit a formal application using our online application system at http://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/apply, including a CV, degree transcripts and certificates, statement of interest and names of two academic referees.

On the application system use Programme of Study – PhD Chemistry.

The project will not show on the application system so choose the correct study programme. Please make sure you include the project title and Supervisor’s name with your statement of interest on the application form.

 

Sponsors

The School of Life Sciences.

Contact us

Contact Anna Izykowska for application enquiries (a.izykowska@sussex.ac.uk).

Contact Professor Layfield (r.layfield@sussex.ac.uk) for enquiries about the project.

Timetable

Deadline to apply: 23 January 2019

Project start Date: 23 September 2019

Availability

At level(s):
PG (research)

Application deadline:
23 January 2019 0:00 (GMT)
the deadline has now expired

Countries

The award is available to people from these specific countries: