A 3-year PhD fellowship is available in organic synthesis from August 1, 2015 or soon thereafter.
The project will mainly be carried out in the area of carbohydrate chemistry where the most important linkage is the glycosidic bond. This connection is prepared by a glycosylation reaction between a glycosyl donor and a glycosyl acceptor, but due to the complex structure of carbohydrates many protecting groups are employed in the coupling. This increases the number of reactions for preparation of an oligosaccharide and makes it both a costly and time-consuming event to assemble a target molecule.
Institute: Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark
(DTU) under the supervision of Professor Robert Madsen.
Responsibilities and tasks
The project will develop approaches to diminish the need for protecting groups in oligosaccharide synthesis. Glycosylations with unprotected glycosyl acceptors will be performed with a new coupling method developed in the group and special catalysts to direct the regioselectivity. In this way, the coupling will be controlled by a catalyst and not by specially introduced protecting groups. Furthermore, several consecutive glycosylations will be carried out in the same pot by using chemoselective couplings with thioglycosides which will also save steps in the preparation of a target molecule. The scope of the regio- and chemoselective glycosylations will be established and the reactions applied to the synthesis of oligosaccharides found in hemicellulose.
Qualifications
The successful candidate should have
- A master’s degree in engineering or chemistry with a strong theoretical and experimental background in organic synthesis
- A strong commitment to research
- Independence and good communications skills
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Professor Robert Madsen.
We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The period of employment is 3 years.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Professor Robert Madsen, DTU Chemistry, +45 4525 2151, e-mail:rm@kemi.dtu.dk.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English)
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines andexcel spreadsheet here)
Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master’s degree, but cannot begin the PhD studies before the master’s degree has been received.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
Deadline: 15 June 2015