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The fixation of atmospheric nitrogen is one of the most important and challenging processes in chemistry, crucial for life and industry. While nature uses nitrogenases based on iron, vanadium, or molybdenum cofactors, synthetic systems still face fundamental obstacles in N₂ activation and functionalisation. Recent breakthroughs (e.g. Nature 2020, 584, 221) show novel ways of transforming dinitrogen into valuable products, highlighting the need for deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms.

Our group, with long-standing expertise in small molecule activation (O2, CO2, SO2) and design of metal–ligand systems, builds on this background to tackle N2 chemistry. The project focuses on the rational design, synthesis, and structural characterisation of multinuclear low-valent iron and vanadium complexes supported by tailored N,N-donor ligands. These model systems will allow us to probe the intimate steps of N2 activation, explore cooperative effects between multiple metal centres, and provide fundamental insights into possible new pathways for nitrogen transformations.

      The post-doc will participate in the implementation of the project in close collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) and the research team. Main duties will include:

• Design, synthesis, and structural characterization of multinuclear homo- and heterometallic Fe and V complexes supported by bis(β-diketiminate) and bis(formamidine) ligands.
• Synthesis of low-valent Fe and V complexes using a range of reducing agents and optimized reaction conditions.
• Investigation of dinitrogen activation by selected low-valent Fe and V complexes stabilized by sterically demanding ligands.
• Correlation of computational and experimental data, including structural, spectroscopic, and mechanistic studies.
• Preparing research results for scientific publications and presenting project outcomes at seminars and conferences.

We offer a post-doctoral position (full-time employment) in the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS with a gross salary of Around 9 650 PLN gross

per month financed from the NCN Project OPUS 23 entitled “Activation of Dinitrogen by Multinuclear Iron and Vanadium Complexes Supported by Linked Sterically Demanding N,N’-subunits” no 2022/45/B/ST4/03863

 100% of the work time of Postdoc will be devoted to the realization of the proposed project. The offer is for    6 months with a possible extension   

The position offers an excellent opportunity to develop scientific competences through participation in cutting-edge research with broad fundamental and application potential. The post-doc will gain experience in advanced inorganic synthesis, mechanistic studies, and computational-experimental correlations along with the chance to present results at international conferences and publish in high-impact journals while working in an international environment. The project provides a strong basis for building an independent research profile and enhancing career prospects in both academia and industry.

The successful candidate will be eligible for all programs at the IPC PAS, including the IPC PAS Young Scientists competition and the IPC PAS Young Scientists Mobility competition.

Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ programme.

1. PhD degree in chemical or physical sciences, obtained in the year of employment in the project or within 7 years before 1 January of the year of employment in the project. For researchers with multiple PhDs, the date of the first PhD award is deemed the reference date. Extension might apply according to National Science Centre, Poland, rules.

2. Additionally, the candidate for the postdoctoral position must meet the following condition: they did not have the principal investigator as their research supervisor or auxiliary supervisor of their PhD dissertation.

3. Strong publication record and scientific experience.

4. Experience in laboratory work in the field of inorganic and coordination chemistry.

5. Strong experience with the use of a Schlenk line and/or glovebox, and manipulation involving air-sensitive compounds.

6. Knowledge of spectroscopic techniques: IR, NMR, UV-Vis, and/or basics of X-ray crystallography (PXRD and XRD,

7. Ability to communicate fluently in English (written and spoken)

The Recruitment Commission will take into account the following criteria:

•             The candidate’s competence to carry out specific tasks in the project - max 70 points;

•             Previous scientific achievements of candidates (publication record, H-index etc.) - max 25 points;

•             Awards and distinctions of the candidate resulting from the conducted research – max. 5 points