PhD Scholarship in Low Oxidation State Main Group Compounds as Transition Metal Mimics in Sustainable Organic Synthesis

Project summary

In the past 5 years remarkable progress has been made in advancing the chemistry of low oxidation state main group compounds.  Although of significant fundamental interest, the high reactivity of such compounds is currently lending them to use in synthetic transformations normally associated with toxic and expensive d-block metal complexes. These include the activation of small molecules, e.g. H2, NH3, CO2, CO etc (see for example J. Am. Chem. Soc., 2025, 147, 47584; Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2025, 64, e202500264; Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2023, 62, e202308347). You will explore the development of such reactions and their application to both stoichiometric and catalytic synthetic processes. The possibility may also exist for you to spend 3-6 months working in a collaborator's laboratory in one of a number of European or North American Universities.

The project is funded by the Australian Research Council.

Candidate requirements

Essential

  • A completed, or near completed, 1st class Honours or 1st class Masters degree (or equivalent) in synthetic chemistry from a highly ranked university.
  • Expertise in synthetic (in)organic chemistry and/or catalysis.

Desirable

  • Knowledge and experience in air sensitive main group chemistry using dry-box and Schlenk techniques.
  • Authored academic publications

Applicants must also fulfil the criteria for PhD admission at Monash University. Details of the relevant requirements are available at monash.edu/science/schools/chemistry/postgraduate.

Further information

Academic Supervisor: Professor Cameron Jones
X: @Jones_Research
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com.au/citations?user=VdwY0iAAAAAJ&hl=en
Website: https://www.monash.edu/science/research-groups/chemistry-research-groups/jonesgroup

Renumeration: The successful applicant will receive a living allowance of $37,145 AUD per annum (2026 full-time rate, tax-free, indexed annually). Tuition fees for the studentship will also be covered (if applicable).

Employment Type: Full-time

Commencement: 2026

Closing Date: ongoing

Contact: cameron.jones@monash.edu, attaching a copy of your curriculum vitae (CV), including a list of publications; academic transcripts (university level qualifications);  IELTS/TOEFL English test results (if applicable), and details of three referees.