PhD student in the field of homogeneous catalysis wanted (m/f/d)

You undertake the implementation of a project with the aim of developing new homogeneous catalysts for organic synthesis. The main focus should be on the metals palladium, nickel and copper and on the corresponding ligand design. You synthesize suitable ligands and transition metal complexes using preperative methods of organometallic and organic synthesis, including the isolation of air- and moisture-sensitive compounds. You test the catalysts in parallel reactions, even using modern high throughput methods. You characterize the isolated compounds with various analytical methods, for example NMR, GC/MS or IR spectroscopy, crystallography and elementary analysis. You document your results, compare them with the current state of research, write manuscripts for publication and present results in seminars and conferences. You work with other group members and support in general research tasks. You serve students in research and grand internships.

The candidate* has a very good Master's degree in chemistry and should provide the following knowledge: Intensified theoretical knowledge in the field of organometal chemistry, ideally in homogeneous catalysis. Practical experience in the synthesis of transition metal complexes and the implementation of homogeneously catalyzed reactions also in the parallel approach and under inert gas conditions. Experiences with modern methods such as electrochemistry and photochemistry would also be desirable. Practical experience in the analysis and characterization of organic and organometallic compounds, especially by IR, NMR, GC and UV/Vis spectroscopy, MS analysis and crystallography. Experience with common chemical and evaluation programs (ChemDraw, MestReNova). Basics in the field of quantum chemistry studies and programming (Python) would also be desirable. In addition, the candidate can write scientific texts in English and communicate in English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to acquire the other are assumed.

Volume: Parttime Duration: fixed, 3 years Start: 01.07.2026 Apply up to: 24.03.2026 Demanding and varied tasks with high self-responsibility An employment at one of the largest universities in Germany in the association of the University Alliance Ruhr A qualified incorporation Cooperation in a dedicated and value-adding team Further information: Employment is in the employment relationship and is governed by the collective agreement of the countries (TV-L). The grouping takes place in the event of the fulfilment of the personal and collective conditions in the E13 TV-L remuneration group. For further information, see https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/. The office is the Ruhr-Universität Bochum. The scope of the teaching obligation depends on § 3 of the teaching obligation regulation NRW.

The RUB is a university with international broadcasting. Campus languages are German and English. The RUB provides free services for employees. The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection discussions. At the request of an applicant (m/w/d), he shall ensure his participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is one of the leading research universities in Germany. As a reform-oriented campus university, it unites in a unique way the entire range of large science areas in one place. The dynamic interaction of subjects and discipline cultures gives researchers and students the same special opportunities for interdisciplinary cooperation.

The RUB stands for diversity and equal opportunities. We therefore encourage the cooperation of heterogeneous teams and the professional path of people who are underrepresented in the respective areas of work. The RUB expressly wishes to apply for women. In areas where You are underrepresented, You are preferably taken into account with the same qualification. Applications for people with disabilities are also very welcome. .