Leiden Institute of Chemistry

Homogeneous Catalysis

To achieve a more sustainable society, it is important to move away from cradle-to-grave applications, and to develop a more circular economy, wherein reusability and recycling are part of the development of any new product. In that context, the currently undergoing change of chemical feedstocks from fossil fuels to biomass and CO2, and the electrification of our infrastructure, represent important developments of modern chemistry. Therefore, fundamentally new synthetic processes are needed to synthesise the low-, intermediate- and high-value chemical products necessary to developed societies.

Homogeneous catalysis is expected to play a pivotal role in these transformations. Specific challenges include, but are not limited to, artificial photosynthesis, biomass utilisation, tandem catalysis, supramolecular (photo)catalysis, and/or homogeneous catalytic processes based on abundant elements. Excellent opportunities exist within the Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) for strong interactions with groups specialised in electrochemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, photochemistry, organometallic and coordination chemistry, and/or computational chemistry. 

Position

The Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) aims to hire a talented coordination chemist, ideally specialised in homogeneous catalysis, in relation to the energy & sustainability cluster of the institute. The researcher is expected to develop an independent research line and to integrate in the local, national and international research landscape. A collaborative mind-set is important to further enhance innovative sustainable chemistry within the LIC.

Facilities

The Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) is located in a brand new building and has all the facilities required for modern synthetic chemistry, (spectro-)electrochemistry, photochemistry, computational chemistry, and organometallic/coordination chemistry. The Faculty also houses the Fine Mechanical Service for the design of specialised equipment, and has close ties to the Leidse Instrumentmakers School.

Education

The LIC is responsible for the bachelor programmes “Molecular Science & Technology” and “Life Science & Technology” (jointly with the Delft University of Technology), and for the master programmes “Chemistry” and “Life Science & Technology”. The candidate is expected to develop and teach (advanced) courses on coordination chemistry, homogeneous catalysis and organometallic chemistry.