Physical Organic Chemistry

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to have a good honours degree, or equivalent, in Chemistry or in a related subject.

Months of entry

January, April, July, October

Course content

The School of Chemistry has scientific research team in Physical Organic Chemistry, with a wide variety of research techniques and topics being studied. The team’s mission is to make molecules for a purpose and then study their physical properties in line with the required use of the new compounds. Underpinning this breadth of applications is the detailed, quantitative understanding of the fundamental properties and reactions and interactions of organic molecules.

The techniques used in the research are as widely varying as the topics being studied. Theoretical methods include electronic structure theory, molecular dynamics simulations, integration of complex kinetic equations, and development of data analysis software. In the laboratory, the research may involve organic synthesis, biophysical studies (including for example titration calorimetry, UV-visible, circular dichroism, infrared and NMR spectroscopy) and HPLC. MPhil and PhD students involved in this work can expect to receive a broad and interdisciplinary training that is highly marketable in a wide variety of chemistry-related careers.

Available research specialisations within this area:

• Fundamental studies of kinetics and dynamics of organic reactions
• Design and synthesis of sequence-specific DNA biosensors
• Study of reaction mechanisms of homogeneous catalysts
• Directed assembly of functional multicomponent nanostructures
• Racemisation of drug-like chiral centres
• Mechanistic studies of nanoparticle catalysis

Information for international students

We bring the brightest minds from all parts of the world to collaborate on tough problems, learn from each other and advance our knowledge across a range of inspiring subjects. For more information, please visit www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/international

Fees and funding

For information about fees and funding please visit www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/area/physical-organic-chemistry/