PhD Studentship in Organic Synthetic Chemistry and Functional Materials

Title: Dynamic Processes in Organic Functional Materials

Supervisor: Professor Paul Mc Gonigal

Start date: 1st October 2027

Applications are invited for a DPhil studentship in Synthetic and
Physical Organic Chemistry available from October 2027, to work under the supervision of Professor Paul McGonigal in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Oxford.

The studentship will cover course fees at a Home rate and provide a stipend of no less than the standard UK Research Council rate (currently set at £21,805 p.a.) for 3.5 years. Please see:  for more information.

Research in the McGonigal group focuses on investigating dynamic covalent and noncovalent bonding interactions of strained molecules (including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and aromatic cations relevant to applications in organic materials. There will also be continuation of ongoing work in, e.g., state-independent ionic conductivity (Science 2025), shape shifting molecules (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2025), dynamic stereo chemistry (Nature Chem. 2023), and strained aromatic cations (Nature Chem.

2023).

Candidates with a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree in Chemistry or a related subject are encouraged to apply. The candidate is expected to have a strong commitment to research and should have demonstrated the ability to independently learn new skills. The successful applicant will be based in the Chemistry Research Laboratory (CRL), Oxford.

Final date to receive applications: 12.00 noon UK time on Wednesday, 6th January 2027.

Queries relating to the application and admission process should be directed to: gradu; tel.:

The Department of Chemistry holds the Athena SWAN Silver Award and the McGonigal group is dedicated to promoting diversity, equality and inclusion.

£21,805. Stipend p.a + Course Fees at Home Rate