Doctorant (M/F) en chimie organique et catalyse

Job Description

Thesis Subject

Functionalized aromatic molecules play a central role in organic chemistry, particularly in medicinal chemistry and materials science. Nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) reactions are key tools for accessing these motifs; however, they are traditionally limited to highly activated substrates and are poorly suited for stereocontrol, especially for the construction of axial or planar chirality. Developing new catalytic approaches to overcome these limitations therefore represents a major challenge in modern synthesis.

This PhD project aims to develop an innovative strategy for asymmetric photoredox catalysis based on modulable acridine–boron systems and supramolecular interactions. The objective is to design photocatalysts capable of finely tuning their redox properties through weak interactions, while simultaneously creating a chiral environment conducive to enantioselective transformations. These systems will be applied to CRA-SNAr-type reactions on poorly activated substrates, with the goal of accessing unprecedented enantioselective transformations.

The PhD candidate will develop expertise in organic synthesis, photophysical chemistry (UV-Vis, fluorescence, electrochemistry), and mechanistic studies. Particular attention will be devoted to understanding structure–reactivity relationships, as well as to the development of new methodologies for the construction of high-value chiral aromatic molecules.

This project, at the interface of organic, supramolecular, and physical chemistry, offers an international and multidisciplinary research environment, with strong prospects for academic and industrial impact

Your Work Environment

École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris (ENSCP), also known as Chimie ParisTech, is an autonomous higher education and research institution and a member of Université Paris Sciences et Lettres (PSL). Under the supervision of the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, the school's primary missions are the training of chemical engineers and the advancement of scientific research. The institution conducts high-level research in close collaboration with the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).

Among its research structures is the Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences (i-CLeHS, UMR 8060), a joint research unit of Chimie ParisTech–PSL established in 2019. It comprises 28 permanent staff members and is organized into four research teams. The i-CLeHS laboratory benefits from internationally recognized expertise, with four ERC laureates (1 Starting Grant, 3 Consolidator Grants, and 1 Advanced Grant).

Constraints and risks

The PhD work will involve experimental research in an organic chemistry laboratory, including the handling of air- and moisture-sensitive reagents, as well as the use of specialized techniques (inert atmosphere techniques, light irradiation, purification, and analytical methods). These activities require rigor, organization, and strict adherence to safety protocols.

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

The research professions