Overview
The research carried out within the Organic Synthesis group from Cardiff University, is largely focused on the development of novel synthetic methods and applications of these in target synthesis, most often either natural products or biologically active compounds of pharmaceutical or agrochemical significance. In many cases, the inspiration for developing the new methodology arises from a consideration of the structural features of such targets.
Features
A particularly strong theme is the formation of such compounds by the electrophile-driven addition of nucleophiles to unsaturated carbon-carbon bonds. A long standing interest in pericyclic reactions continues in the areas of Diels-Alder chemistry, various sigmatropic rearrangements and electrocyclic reactions.
Organocatalysis, an increasingly important area in view of the toxicity of many transition metals, is well represented within the group. Current target types include complex polycyclic peptides, alkaloids, steroids, terpene alkaloids and plant-derived oxygen heterocycles.
Programme Structure
Particular areas of current interest are:
- Heterocyclic synthesis, both saturated and heteroaromatic.
- Driven by the demands of industry and environmental considerations, much of this effort is aimed at defining new methods for the highly efficient and catalytic generation of such compounds.
- This can involve new heterogeneous catalysts, reactions in flow systems and the application of novel rearrangement reactions or radical chemistry.
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 36 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
- StartingApplication deadline not specified.
Language
Delivered
Disciplines
Biomedicine Chemistry Biochemistry View 49 other PhDs in Chemistry in United KingdomAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- Exam results (copies of original certificates or transcripts and English translations, if necessary, to prove you have the qualifications listed on your application form)
- References: some programmes require one or two references (usually at least one from a recent lecturer or professor) – you can ask your referee to download and fill out our Referee report form or obtain a signed and dated reference on headed paper
- Personal statement (some programmes require a specific personal statement, so check the entry requirements for your programme)
- Research proposal (for research students who are not applying for listed projects)
- English Language certificates (for applicants whose first language is not English)
Tuition Fee
Tuition fees status is determined during the processing of applications, so we are unable to confirm this in advance or advise on fees status decisions.
Living costs for Cardiff
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.