Open Positions
Ph.D. Position in Polymer Chemistry, Plajer Group, Bayreuth:
Synthesis of Sustainable and Recyclable Sulfur-Containing Polymers
The group: Our interests are centred on finding new ways to incorporate functional main group and transition metal centres into polymers and to render plastic materials more degradable and recyclable. The projects in our group range from inorganic to polymer chemistry and always go hand in hand with material testing, investigating a wide range of applications, from coatings and packaging to materials for heat conduction. We also study how the formation of polymer chains and, conversely, their deconstruction correlate with the inorganic chemistry of the unusual atoms we incorporate. With these approaches, we aim to contribute towards a more sustainable and circular polymer economy.
The offer: The project will focus on the preparation of Sulfur containing polymers, which will be tested for their ability to conduct heat, aiming to achieve metal-like properties with these sustainable materials. Our objectives include improving recyclability to enhance potential reuse and gaining a precise understanding of how sulfur improves crystallinity and, consequently, its properties. The work involves the synthesis of new monomers and their polymerisation under inert conditions, followed by materials characterization. This includes close collaboration with the physical chemistry department to analyse and understand heat transport within the material. Further specifics of the project will be discussed personally with the most promising applicants.
Application: Applicants should have experience in synthetic chemistry ideally involving polymers. Familiarity with inert gas techniques is advantageous. We welcome applications from individuals holding (or nearing completion of) an M.Sc. or an equivalent degree in chemistry. To apply, please submit a single PDF file containing your CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter detailing your background, motivation, and research interests to Jun.-Prof. Dr. Plajer (alex.plajer[at]uni-bayreuth.de). If you have any questions, feel free to contact us in advance. We look forward to receiving your application!
For further reading check out: J. Stephan et. al. , A. J. Plajer*, Angew. Chem. 2024, e202405047; C. Gallizioli et al., A. J. Plajer*, Angew. Chem. 2024, e202319810; C. Fornacon-Wood et. al., A. J. Plajer*, Nat. Commun. 2023, 14, 4525.
Applications for research internships and master thesis (internal or external) are always welcome!