PhD in Chemistry: Sustainable Main Group Catalysis Using Frustrated Lewis Pairs

Cardiff University seeks a PhD student for an ERC-funded project on sustainable catalysis under Prof. Rebecca Melen. The role focuses on developing expertise in main group radical catalysis, aiming for metal-free chemical synthesis of pharmaceutically relevant molecules. The student will gain skills in experimental design, data analysis, and professional development, preparing them for diverse careers. Candidates should have a strong academic background, with a start date of October 1, 2026.
Prof. Rebecca Melen is looking for an enthusiastic PhD student to join her team on an ERC funded project on sustainable catalysis.

This PhD project offers the student a unique opportunity to develop expertise at the forefront of main group radical catalysis. This project will advance excellence in synthetic main group radical catalysis by establishing a transformative platform for sustainable, metal-free chemical synthesis targeting pharmaceutically relevant molecules. By developing systems capable of generating frustrated radical pairs (FRPs), the project addresses a fundamental gap in catalytic radical methodology and introduces mechanistically novel, step-economical transformations. Integrating synthetic chemistry and advanced spectroscopic techniques (NMR, EPR, UV-vis) in this project will ensure a rigorous understanding of single electron transfer processes, underpinning predictive catalyst design and reproducible outcomes. By combining innovation in main group radical catalysis with rigorous mechanistic insight, this project will seed a new research direction at the forefront of sustainable catalysis research, ensuring long-term impact of the research. The project is designed to generate publishable results in high-quality journals.

Alongside experimental work, the student will be trained in critical data analysis, experimental design, and interpretation of mechanistic results, developing strong problem-solving and computational reasoning skills. Comprehensive professional development will complement technical training. The student will receive guidance in scientific writing, oral communication, and presentation skills, as well as project management, time management, and research planning. Opportunities for networking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and engagement with industry will further enhance career readiness. This integrated approach ensures the student graduates with a broad skill set encompassing synthetic, analytical, mechanistic, and professional competencies, preparing them for diverse careers in academia, industry, or sustainable chemistry leadership.

Academic criteria

Candidates should hold or expect to gain a first class degree or a good 2.1 and/or an appropriate Master’s level qualification (or their equivalent).

English Language

If English is not your first language that you must fulfil our English Language criteria before the start of your studies. Details of accepted English Language qualifications for admissions can be found here: English language requirements for postgraduate students - Study - Cardiff University

Supervisor - Professor Rebecca Melen Professor Rebecca Melen - People - Cardiff University

Start date - 1 October 2026

How to apply

To apply please complete an online application here Chemistry - Study - Cardiff University stating your supervisor’s name(s) on your application.

Additional Information

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive environment for all. We welcome applications from all members of the global community irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation.