Project description
The goal of this project is to develop new selective catalytic oxidation processes using biobased hydrocarbons, alcohols and related materials and molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide as oxidants. One of the major challenges that will be addressed is the direct oxidation of alkenes to aldehydes i.e. an anti-Markovnikov analogue of the Wacker oxidation. Towards this goal our novel Pd-nitro catalyst will be explored in the conversion of alkenes, terpenes and functionalized olefins. Furthermore we will explore highly active Mn-catalysts toward selective alcohol to carboxylic acid conversion and cleavage of diol and alkenes as an alternative to ozonolysis. A final aim is to achieve direct hydroxylation of terpenes, steroids and related hydrocarbons.
The goal of this project is to develop new selective catalytic oxidation processes using biobased hydrocarbons, alcohols and related materials and molecular oxygen and hydrogen peroxide as oxidants. One of the major challenges that will be addressed is the direct oxidation of alkenes to aldehydes i.e. an anti-Markovnikov analogue of the Wacker oxidation. Towards this goal our novel Pd-nitro catalyst will be explored in the conversion of alkenes, terpenes and functionalized olefins. Furthermore we will explore highly active Mn-catalysts toward selective alcohol to carboxylic acid conversion and cleavage of diol and alkenes as an alternative to ozonolysis. A final aim is to achieve direct hydroxylation of terpenes, steroids and related hydrocarbons.
Requirements
We are looking for a candidate with a Masters or equivalent degree in synthetic chemistry or homogeneous catalysis with excellent laboratory skills.
Conditions of employment
A Ph.D. Scholarship at the Stratingh Institute for Chemistry and the Institute for Technology, Engineering & Management at the University of Groningen will be provided for four years. Assistance with stay permits in the Netherlands for non-EU citizens will be provided by the university.
Applications
Please send your applications including curriculum vitae and the names and contact information of at least two references before January 15th to:
Personnel Department
University of Groningen
P.O.Box 72
9700 AB GRONINGEN
The Netherlands
E-mail: vmp@bureau.rug.nlAdditional information
Supervisors: prof. dr. B. L. Feringa (homepage), dr. W. R. Browne
Contact: prof. dr. B. L. Feringa