Cyber Security Academy Southampton
Research Fellow - Synthetic Organic Chemistry
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Postdoctoral Research Associate
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate to work in the group of Dr Jonathan George for a period of up to 3 years, funded by the Leverhulme Trust. The position will be based at the University of Southampton, one of the UK’s top research-intensive universities. Chemistry at Southampton has a national and international reputation for excellence with world-leading facilities.
About the Role
Applicants must hold a PhD in synthetic organic chemistry (or be close to completion), or have equivalent professional qualifications and experience. Strong expertise in organic synthesis is required, including multi-step synthesis, reaction optimisation, purification, and structural characterisation. Experience in total synthesis, catalysis, photochemistry, and/or mechanistic studies would be advantageous. You should have an excellent work ethic, strong problem-solving skills, and enthusiasm for achieving the project aims. You will also contribute to the general running and maintenance of the laboratory.
Project Focus
The project will focus on the biomimetic synthesis of complex natural products, particularly meroterpenoids, using cascade reactions inspired by biosynthetic pathways. The research will explore how simple precursors can be converted rapidly into structurally complex molecules through dearomatisation, rearrangement, and cycloaddition chemistry. Particular emphasis will be placed on developing new reactions based on the inherent reactivity of proposed biosynthetic intermediates, combining total synthesis with reaction discovery and mechanistic investigation.
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Recent Work Relevant to the Project
- T. V. de Castro et al., “A Bioinspired, One-Step Total Synthesis of Peshawaraquinone,” Chem. Sci. 2023, 14, 950.
- S. A. French et al., “Total Synthesis of Atrachinenins A and B,” J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2022, 144, 22844.
- L. J. Franov et al., “Bioinspired Total Synthesis of Erectones A and B, and the Revised Structure of Hyperelodione D,” Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2022, 61, e202200420.
- J. H. George, “Biomimetic Dearomatization Strategies in the Total Synthesis of Meroterpenoid Natural Products,” Acc. Chem. Res. 2021, 54, 1843.
Further information about our research can be found on the group website: https://jonathangeorgeblog.wordpress.com/
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For informal enquiries contact Dr Jonathan George: jonathan.george@southampton.ac.uk
Application Process
Letters of recommendation are not required at this stage but will be requested if you are shortlisted for interview. Interviews are due to be held in November 2026.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality. The University recognises that employees may wish to have working patterns that fit with their caring responsibilities or work-life balance. Due consideration will also be given to applicants who have had career breaks for reasons including maternity, paternity or adoption leave, disability, or illness. Both the University of Southampton and Chemistry are proud to hold Athena Swan Silver Awards.
How to Apply
Apply by 11.59 pm UK time on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.
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