Porphyrin cages for chiral recognition or (photo)catalysis

Organisation / Company Université de Strasbourg Laboratory UMR 7177 - PCS Is the Hosting related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Keywords: supramolecular chemistry, organic synthesis, (photo)catalysis, asymmetric synthesis

Project:

Supramolecular chemistry focuses on intermolecular interactions that can drive self-assembly processes of complex architectures from simpler components, enable recognition of specific guest molecules and control key features during catalytic reactions. Molecular cages are hollow structures with a well-defined three-dimensional cavity that can encapsulate guest molecules or be used to perform reactions in their cavity. Metalloporphyrins are attractive constituents of cages thanks to their various properties and catalytic activities.

Molecular containers incorporating porphyrins are developed in our group for their dynamic and electronic properties and as active components for the reactivity performed inside the cavity. Made chiral by the introduction of stereogenic elements, they offer perspectives in supramolecular chirogenesis by inducing chirality thanks to the geometric control achieved by the confinement of reactants and intermediates inside the chiral cage catalyst. The laboratory is also equipped for testing photocatalytic reactions.

Any suggestion from the candidate concerning the future project is welcome.

Candidate profile:

Motivated to work on a collaborative project in a booming field, in the rich scientific environment of Strasbourg?

• You have a PhD in organic or coordination chemistry, with skills in organic synthesis, and good knowledge of the usual techniques of molecular synthesis, purification and characterization of molecules.
• You are interested in chirality, supramolecular chemistry and (photo)catalysis.
• You are curious, rigorous, open-minded and fluent in English, with good communication skills. If you have expertise in photochemistry, (photo)catalysis or supramolecular chemistry, it is an asset, but not mandatory.

Who can apply?

Researchers of any nationality who:

• Have completed a PhD or will complete it at the date of the call deadline (September 2026).
• Have a maximum of 8 years full-time equivalent experience in research at the time of the call deadline.
• Have not resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the call deadline.

Beware that applicants who have applied to the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2025 call and received an evaluation below 80% are not eligible for an application in 2026.

How to apply?

We encourage all motivated and eligible postdoctoral researchers to send their expressions of interest to the supervisor’s e-mail address before 24th April 2026.

Your application shall include:

• a CV (5 pages max),
• a cover letter outlining your research background and its synergies with the supervisor’s field and/or the proposed research topic.

Estimated timetable:

• Deadline for sending an expression of interest: 24th April 2026
• Selection of the applicant: May 2026 at the latest