PhD Position available at the University of Southern Denmark: Metal–Organic Hydride Frameworks for multi-electron reductions

A PhD position in inorganic chemistry is currently available at the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy.

Project Background
Modern industry is heavily reliant on molecular hydrogen (H2) for driving reduction reactions, such as the exemplar Harber–Bosch reaction. To overcome hydrogen’s sluggish reactivity, these processes require high temperatures and pressure, and efficient transport of gaseous fuels remains a major challenge. Inspired by nature’s own strategies where organic molecules are used instead of hydrogen gas to store, transport, and deliver electrons in the form of hydride (H–) - this project aims to use small synthetic models of these redox-active cofactors to drive multi-electron redox reactions inside new metal–organic frameworks.

Research Group
The McPherson group design new metal–organic frameworks, which translate the exquisite control of molecular synthetic chemistry into robust solid materials. We combine a strong background in synthetic skills with expertise in characterising and manipulating the electronic structures of solid-state materials, to tackle the significant and diverse challenges facing society as we transition away from technologies reliant on fossil-fuels.

Qualifications
The successful candidate will have experience in synthetic inorganic chemistry. Hands-on experience with air- and moisture-sensitive synthetic techniques is strongly desired. In addition, experience in any of the following methods will be advantageous: Single-crystal crystallography, Powder X-ray diffraction, NMR, UV-vis, IR and Luminescence spectroscopy, electrochemistry. The candidate will hold a M.Sc. in chemistry (for 5+3 programme). Candidates close to defending their M.Sc. thesis are also welcome to apply (M. Sc. defence must be completed prior to start date for the 5+3 program). We expect good interpersonal and communication (English) for effective teamwork across disciplines and demonstrated leadership will be regarded highly.

Informal enquiries about the position are welcome to James McPherson ([email protected]).

Application, salary etc.
Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the University’s website.

The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement on salaried PhD scholars between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary (only available in Danish) and taxation.

The successful candidate will be enrolled at this university in accordance with faculty regulations and the Danish Ministerial Order on the PhD Programme at the Universities (PhD order).

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

A letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages).

Detailed CV, including personal contact information and date entries.

Copies of diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees), including transcripts of grades.

The names and complete contact details (phone numbers and e-mail) of at least two referees who can vouch for your skills.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. Shortlisting may be used as part of the assessment process, and an interview may be included in the overall evaluation of the applicant’s qualifications.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link “Apply now”. Attached files must be in Adobe PDF format. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Application deadline: 08.02.2026

Location
Odense M, Denmark

Apply Before
2026-02-08T22:59:00+00:00