PhD in Organometallic Chemistry for Green Hydrogenation

Organisation/Company Université de Lorraine - MUR L2CM 7053 Research Field Chemistry Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Leading Researcher (R4) First Stage Researcher (R1) Established Researcher (R3) Application Deadline 24 Apr 2026 - 22:00 (UTC) Country France Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Position Overview:

The Université de Lorraine (L2CM, UMR 7053) invites applications for a PhD position in Organometallic Chemistry and Sustainable Catalysis , within the research project:

“Novel CAAC-Based Complexes Using Abundant Metals for Hydrogenation Reactions”

The project aims to develop new cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (CAAC)-based ligands and investigate their coordination chemistry with earth-abundant metals to enable efficient and sustainable hydrogenation catalysis. Catalytic hydrogenation using molecular dihydrogen is a cornerstone of green chemistry, yet the selective reduction of relatively inert carbonic acid derivatives, such as carbonates, carbamates, and ureas, remains a major challenge. Developing catalytic systems capable of transforming these substrates under mild conditions using non-precious metals would establish a sustainable route for CO2 valorization, as these compounds are easily derived from CO2. Extending this strategy to polymeric analogues could further provide innovative approaches to chemical recycling, contributing to the mitigation of global plastic waste.

Research Objectives:

The PhD candidate will be involved in:

• Design and synthesis of novel bi- and tridentate CAAC ligands
• Exploration of coordination chemistry with first-row transition metals (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni).
• Full characterization of organometallic complexes
• Evaluation of catalytic activity in hydrogenation reactions
• Mechanistic investigations using NMR, IR spectroscopy, kinetic studies, and DFT calculations

The project combines advanced ligand design, air-sensitive organometallic synthesis, homogeneous catalysis, and mechanistic analysis within a sustainability-driven framework.

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Organic Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry, or a related field.

Technical Skills

Strong background in in multistep organic and organometallic synthesisExperience with air- and moisture-sensitive techniques (Schlenk line, glovebox)Proficiency in standard characterization techniques (NMR, IR, MS; GC, GC-MS X-ray diffraction)Familiarity with catalytic reactions; experience with high-pressure equipment (autoclaves) is an advantage

Previous research experience (e.g., Master’s internship) in organometallic chemistry or catalysis will be highly appreciated.

Language

Excellent command of English (written and spoken)

Personal Qualities

Self-motivated, independent, target-oriented, systematic working style, creative, and excellent collaborative and interpersonal skills.

The successful candidate will join the SynOCat (Synergistic Organometallic Catalysis) group at the L2CM laboratory,working under the supervision of Prof. Christophe Werlé, and Dr. Ruqaya Buhaibeh.

Please submit your application documents as a single PDF, including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates, and contact information for two references. Application should be sent via email to: ( ).