Project A02

Mechanistic studies of plasmon-induced bond cleavage and cross-coupling reactions using SERS and X-ray probing methods

Principal investigators: Ilko Bald, Yan Lu, Renske van der Veen

This project aims at unravelling the mechanism of plasmon-induced carbon-halogen bond cleavage and subsequent carbon-carbon coupling reactions and revealing the influence of the plasmonic material on the observed reactivity. In particular, Au and Au/Pd nanoparticles will be studied as well as alternative plasmonic materials. We employ a unique combination of structurally sensitive probing methods based on surface-enhanced Raman scattering and X-ray spectroscopy, complemented with gas-chromatography mass spectrometry characterisation of reactants and products in solution.

Position 1 (ID no. CRC1636A02-1/2023; Prof. Ilko Bald, University of Potsdam):

Responsibilities:

Mechanistic studies of plasmon-induced chemical reactions using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) up to the single-molecule level using DNA origami based plasmonic nanoantennas.

Qualifications:

Excellent Master's or PhD degree in chemistry, physics or a similar field at the time of project start. The candidate should have a strong background in physical chemistry, optical spectroscopy and preparation of metal nanoparticles. Expertise in SERS, plasmonic chemistry and/or DNA nanotechnology will be advantageous. The candidate should be open-minded, communicative and keen to work in an interdisciplinary group of scientists.

Position 2 (ID no. CRC1636A02-2/2023; Prof. Yan Lu, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie):

Responsibilities:

Synthesis and characterization of plasmonic-based nanoparticles and testing of their plasmon-assisted "catalytic effect" in solution. Specifically, the synthesis parameters (e.g. temperature, reaction time, precursor species and concentrations) will be systematically studied and optimized for up-scaling, which will be used for SERS and XAS experiments by the partners. In addition, surface modified plasmonic nanoparticles that can modulate the charge transfer and heat transfer processes will be also studied.

Qualifications:

Master’s degree or diploma in chemistry, materials science, or similar discipline with above average marks at the time of project start. The candidate should have a strong background in colloid chemistry. Expertise in the work with nanoparticles and surface modification techniques is of advantage.

Position 3 (ID no. CRC1636A02-3/2023; Prof. Renske van der Veen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie):

Responsibilities:

Development of an in situ XAS cell, conduct experiments at large-scale X-ray facilities, use and develop advanced X-ray spectroscopy theory and data analysis tools, preparation and characterization of samples, presenting results at international conferences

Qualifications:

Master’s degree or diploma in chemistry, physics, materials science, or similar discipline with above average marks at the time of project start.