In the Feringa lab, chirality is a leading theme, and we have a deep interest in fundamental aspects of stereochemistry. As such, a small team is working on the origins of homochirality.

The postdoc will focus on asymmetric autocatalysis under prebiotic relevant conditions to induce chiral amplification/self-replication. Chiral self-replication is one approach that will be followed using condensation reactions and supramolecular assembly. Alternatively, asymmetric autocatalysis will be explored using simple cyclic and acyclic acceptor molecules and amine donors to generate e.g. amino acids.

The postdoc will collaborate with one other experienced postdoc, and one or two PhD students, all working on related research topics.

The University of Groningen is a research university, currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists. The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) is the largest faculty within the University, offering first-rate education and research in a wide range of science and engineering disciplines.

The mission of the Stratingh Institute for Chemistry is to perform excellent research and teaching in molecular and supramolecular chemistry. Core activities in the chemical sciences such as bioorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular inorganic chemistry and molecular materials chemistry are embedded in the institute. The research programme is focused on synthesis, catalysis, functional materials, bio-organic chemistry/chemical biology and systems chemistry/complex molecular systems.

The research program of the Feringa group is focused on synthetic and physical organic chemistry. Inspired by Nature's principles of molecular assembly, recognition, transport, motion and catalysis, the goal is to exploit the full potential of synthetic chemistry to create new structures and functions. A major part of the research is directed towards dynamic molecular systems. The focus is on molecular nanoscience, novel responsive materials and photo-pharma exploring biohybrid systems, self-assembly, molecular switches and motors. A second part of the program deals with the development (and application in chemical biology) of novel stereoselective synthesis methods and asymmetric catalysis. Chirality is a leading theme and over the years a unique and broad expertise in fundamental aspects of stereochemistry has been acquired including chiroptical phenomena, chiral amplification and origin of chirality.

We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:

• a PhD degree in chemistry
• knowledge and skills in synthetic organic chemistry are necessary knowledge and skills in stereochemistry and asymmetric catalysis are strongly recommended
• a relevant publication record demonstrating your ability to publish international academic publications, preferably in top tier peer-reviewed journals
• the ability to communicate verbally and in written form in English
• experience in supervision of BSc/MSc/PhD students is a plus.

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit evidence of competency in English, please see University of Groningen’s English Language Requirements for details.

Fixed-term contract: 12 months.

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary based on qualifications and experience of starting at € 3,557 gross per month (salary scale 10)
• excellent secondary terms of employment
• a fulltime position
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• 232 holiday hours per calendar year for full time employment
• participation in a pension scheme for employees
• a personal budget of € 1,000 per year for additional training and career activities.
• a temporary appointment for a specified period of 12 months, with a possibility of extension.

The starting date is flexible, but is preferably as soon as possible.