PhD position in molecular and macrocyclic chemistry (M/F)

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Möbius rings are inherently chiral objects, mirror images being generated by twisting the Möbius band according to a right or a left screw sense. Compared to other sources of chirality, Möbius chirality has been scarcely investigated at the molecular level and thus constitutes an innovative stereogenic element. Currently, a major obstacle remains the asymmetric preparation of Möbius compounds. Focusing on a [28]hexaphyrin scaffold, our group has investigated an original approach for chirality induction taking advantage of the dynamic character of the twisted π-system. Indeed, this conformationally flexible scaffold undergoes rapid P ↔ M equilibrium in solution, thus exhibiting a dynamic Möbius chirality. This feature enables transfer of chirality under thermodynamic control, useful to build up adaptive systems. Recently, we have investigated Möbius Zn(II)-hexaphyrins bearing various functionalities and demonstrated efficient and tunable P/M twist stereoselectivities, controlled by achiral effectors, which is unprecedented. The next challenge is to use these Möbius macrocycles as a “reading-head” in molecular data processing systems, i.e. as a probe able to read an information at the molecular level by mean of dynamic chirality transfer.
To do that, we envisioned the engineering of mechanically bound metal complexes of Möbius hexaphyrin ligands, where coordination chemistry is used to thread a chiral axle and form a rotaxane. We will investigate a novel design involving hybrid hexaphyrin-cyclodextrin compounds. These two components exhibit two key features, i.e. strong and switchable chiroptical activity from Möbius aromatic π-system (hexaphyrin part) and chiral toroidal shape capable of shuttling along an axle (cyclodextrin part). The PhD student will synthesis new strapped hexaphyrin ligands and study their coordination properties towards chiral axles.

Your Work Environment

The PhD work will be conducted at the Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, in the team Organometallics: Materials and Catalysis. The candidate, with a Master 2 degree in molecular chemistry, must have a solid knowledge in general chemistry and more particularly in organic synthesis and NMR spectroscopy. The synthesis and characterization in solution of dynamic macrocyclic ligands and zinc complexes will constitute an important part of this thesis. A strong practical aptitude as well as a significant personal investment will be necessary.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

2300 € gross monthly

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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