Loughborough University is a top-ten rated university in England for research intensity (REF2014) and an outstanding 66% of the work of Loughborough’s academic staff who were eligible to be submitted to the REF was judged as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’, compared to a national average figure of 43%. In choosing Loughborough for your research, you’ll work alongside academics who are leaders in their field. You will benefit from comprehensive support and guidance from our Doctoral College, including tailored careers advice, to help you succeed in your research and future career. Boron sub (porphyrazine) dyes have a unique bowl-like structure and optical properties dominated by intense low-energy absorption. These molecules are related to boron sub (phthalocyanine) dyes which have found use as acceptors in organic solar cells, photodynamic therapies and non-linear optical materials. This project will encompass the synthesis of new boron based dyes featuring peripheral heavy atoms in order to study the influence of these large atoms on the dyes optical and electrochemical properties and to ascertain their suitability for incorporation into functional supramolecular assemblies and optoelectronic devices. Applicants will be required to have a good knowledge of practical organic or organometallic synthetic chemistry alongside experience of running absorption/emission spectroscopy and electrochemical experiments or the desire to learn how to perform these measurements.