PhD student in physical organic chemistry

The Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung in Mülheim an der Ruhr is a renowned research institution that is engaged in basic research in the field of catalysis.

The research program Principles of Reactivity, led by Guanqi Qiu, invites applications for a

PhD student in physical organic chemistry

The Qiu group focuses on conceptualizing new principles of organic reactivity and catalysis. The research program is not bound by any particular chemical transformation, yield, or selectivity. The goal is to demonstrate the concept through flexible sets of chemical reactions, and eventually generalize the concept towards a reaction design principle.

The student is expected to work on projects related to solvation effects, broadly defined within this conceptual program.

Qualification:

The ideal candidate should have

• a Master’s degree in organic chemistry or experimental physical chemistry

• basic knowledge of physical chemistry and organic chemistry

• excellent English language and communication skills

• an exploratory mindset for epistemic challenges and dedication to open-ended thinking

The position is embedded in the training environment of the Integrated Graduate School Solvation Science (iGSS) within the Cluster of Excellence RESOLV (https://www.solvation.de/).

Job offers:

• The funding is typically 3 years with the possibility to extend if the scientific progress and funding permits.

• You will benefit from a research program that takes a unique perspective on chemical reactivity, supported by the department’s excellent experimental infrastructure and intellectual resources, along with plenty of possibilities for personal and professional development.

The position will be available from September 1^st 2026, but the starting date is flexible.

Applications:

Please send your letter of motivation, CV, and college record (for PhD candidates) to Guanqi Qiu via email (gqiu@kofo.mpg.de). Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide two letters of reference.

Please send your application by July 1^st 2026 for full consideration. Late applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants expecting to complete their current degree in summer 2026 are encouraged to apply. Reasonable flexibility regarding the application deadline can be granted if it overlaps with final examinations or thesis defenses. Shortlisted candidates will be notified within three weeks of submission.

More information about the Qiu group:

Guanqi Qiu | Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung (mpg.de)

https://www.guanqi-qiu-lab.com/