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University: CNRS Coordination Chemistry Laboratory, Toulouse
Country: France
Deadline: 2026-04-22
Fields: Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Organometallic Chemistry, Photochemistry, Catalysis
Are you passionate about advancing the frontiers of chemical research and eager to develop innovative materials with unique photoactive properties? If you are seeking a challenging doctoral journey in a vibrant European research environment, this fully funded PhD position in Chemistry at the CNRS Coordination Chemistry Laboratory in Toulouse, France, could be the ideal next step for your academic career.
About the University or Research Institute
The CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) is France’s preeminent organization for fundamental research and stands among the world’s leading scientific institutions. As the only French body active in every scientific discipline, CNRS fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The Coordination Chemistry Laboratory (Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, LCC) in Toulouse is renowned for its cutting-edge research in molecular design, catalysis, and advanced materials. Located in the dynamic city of Toulouse—often called the “Pink City” for its distinctive architecture—the LCC offers a stimulating, international environment where researchers from across the globe collaborate to address some of today’s most pressing scientific challenges.
France itself is celebrated for its high standard of living, rich cultural heritage, and robust support for scientific research. Toulouse, in particular, is a hub for both academia and industry, offering a vibrant student life, excellent public transport, and proximity to the Pyrenees and Mediterranean coast. With a strong tradition of welcoming international talent, France provides an ideal setting for doctoral researchers to thrive both professionally and personally.
Research Topic and Significance
The focus of this doctoral project is the synthesis, photophysics, and unconventional reactivity of photoactive N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs). NHCs have long been recognized for their pivotal role in catalysis and the development of luminescent transition metal complexes. However, the photo-induced transformations of free NHCs remain largely unexplored, especially regarding their potential luminescent properties and reactivity under visible light.
This research aims to push the boundaries of current knowledge by developing novel photoactive NHCs and investigating their unprecedented photochemical reactivity. The ultimate goal is to establish new photocatalytic transformations that could revolutionize organic synthesis and enable the activation of small molecules and inert chemical bonds. The project’s significance lies in its potential to inspire new directions in photocatalysis, materials science, and sustainable chemistry, with broad implications for both academia and industry.
Project Details
The successful candidate will join the “Molecular Design of Transition Metal Catalysts” group within the CNRS Coordination Chemistry Laboratory. The PhD position is funded by the French National Research Agency (ANR) under the PhotoCarb project, ensuring stable financial and academic support throughout the three-year program.
Research activities will include:
– Developing and synthesizing novel imidazolium salts incorporating organoboron and transition metal chromophores.
– Transforming these compounds into the first stable, luminescent imidazol-2-ylidenes with strong absorption in the visible region.
– Exploring the photophysical properties and reactivity of these new NHCs, with a focus on their application in activating small molecules and inert bonds.
– Conducting interdisciplinary studies that combine synthetic, characterization, photophysical, and theoretical approaches.
The laboratory provides a dynamic and international atmosphere, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative research culture. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €2,300, generous annual leave (44 days), and additional benefits such as transport subsidies and remote working options.
Candidate Profile
Ideal applicants for this PhD position will possess:
– A strong academic background in organic and organometallic chemistry (Master’s degree or equivalent).
– High motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research spanning synthesis, photophysical studies, and theoretical analysis.
– Proficiency in working under controlled atmosphere conditions with air- and moisture-sensitive compounds.
– Curiosity, autonomy, and excellent experimental skills.
– The ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, interdisciplinary team.
– Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (minimum B2 level).
– Commitment to advancing knowledge in coordination chemistry and catalysis.
The position is also open to candidates with recognized status as disabled workers, reflecting the CNRS’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Application Process
The application must include:
– A detailed CV
– A cover letter
– Master’s marks (transcripts)
– Contact details of at least two referees able to provide a reasoned opinion on the applicant
Deadline for applications: 2026-04-22, 23:59
For full details and to submit your application, please refer to the official advertisement at:
https://emploi.cnrs.fr/Offres/Doctorant/UPR8241-VINCES-004/Default.aspx
Conclusion
This PhD position at the CNRS Coordination Chemistry Laboratory in Toulouse represents a unique opportunity for aspiring chemists to contribute to pioneering research at the intersection of synthesis, photophysics, and catalysis. If you are driven by curiosity and innovation, and eager to make a tangible impact in the field of chemistry, you are strongly encouraged to apply. For more opportunities like this, stay tuned to our updates and explore further positions below this post.
Questions & Answers
Question: What are the main benefits of pursuing a PhD in France at CNRS?
France offers a high standard of living, strong research infrastructure, and generous funding for doctoral studies. CNRS is internationally recognized, providing access to world-class resources, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a supportive academic environment.
Question: What is the research focus of this PhD position?
The project centers on developing novel photoactive N-heterocyclic carbenes, exploring their unique photophysical properties, and establishing new photocatalytic transformations for organic synthesis.
Question: What kind of applicant profile is the selection committee looking for?
Applicants should have a solid background in organic and organometallic chemistry, strong experimental skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research team.
Question: What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a CV, cover letter, transcripts of their Master’s marks, and contact details of at least two referees.
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