Dmitry Zimin (ESR #1)
Project: Catalytic carboxylation of saturated hydrocarbons with CO2 a route to fatty acids (WP1)
Email: dzimin@iciq.es
Supervisors: Rubén Martín (ICIQ), Kathrin Hopmann (UiT), Chad Elmore (AZ)
Background: I obtained both bachelor and master degrees at Saint-Petersburg State University, Institute of Chemistry. During my studies I was a member of Physical Organic Chemistry Department where I obtained all my knowledge about experimental chemistry under supervision of Dr. Valentin Rassadin and Prof. Vadim Kukushkin. My main area of investigations there was a development of novel synthetic organic methodologies under homogeneous gold catalysis conditions.
Research Interests: During my research project at ICIQ under supervision of Prof. Ruben Martin I will work on development of novel synthetic methodologies for CO2 fixation. My research is based on experience previously obtained in Prof. Martin’s group and knowledge about metal-mediated catalytic CO2 fixation methods. This area of research matches perfectly with my personal research interests in chemistry as metal catalyzed organic reactions is one of my favorite fields of study. During my PhD studies at ICIQ I hope to expand my knowledge of catalytic processes and to gain a new level of expertise as a synthetic chemist.
Hobbies: In my spare time I normally do a lot of sport activities as I am a big fan of swimming. Also, I spend a lot of time reading scientific popular books and classic literature. In addition to these two passions I prefer all activities that help me to restore emotionally and as a result to be productive and thoughtful while doing my research in chemistry afterwards.
Gabriel Batista (ESR #2)
Project: Catalytic conversion of lignin to aryl carboxylic acids with CO2 (WP1)
Email: gmfb@inano.au.dk
Supervisors: Troels Skrydstrup (AU), Kathrin Hopmann (UiT), Søren Tolborg (HT)
Background: My bachelors I did in the Federal University of Juiz de Fora) with an exchange period in the Wrocław University of Science and Technology (Politechnika Wrocławska – Poland). My masters degree I did in the Federal University of Juiz de Fora and a period of my masters I did in the Federal University of São Carlos with Prof. Dr. Giovanni Wilson Amarante as my main supervisor and Prof. Dr. Kleber Thiago de Oliveira as co-supervisor.
Research Interests: Having the means to do chemical transformations and understand the mechanism from which it proceeds, moved me to chemistry. Moreover, trying to obtain explanations for key issues in organic synthesis with the assistance of experimental and computational tools are inherent curiosities. During my PhD project “Catalytic conversion of lignin to aryl carboxylic acids with CO2” I’ll put these in practice with the usage of what currently are waste products. So within this project, I’ll be capable to develop a new synthetic methodology while helping in the sustainable development of the world, and this amuses me.
Hobbies: Spending quality time with my family and friends is one of the things that brings me the most joy in my life. Being Brazilian, I cannot forget about the “Sunday barbecue” since this is one of the best ways to do this, it is a moment like no other. Additionally, being able to travel and get the opportunity to explore the culture and culinary of new places fascinates me.
Vu Duc Ha Phan (ESR #3)
Email: vu_duc_ha.phan@su.se
Supervisors: Belén Martín-Matute (SU), Rubén Martín (ICIQ), Troels Skrydstrup (AU)
Background: I received my Bachelor of Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Technology – Vietnam National University HCMC in April 2014.Then I got a scholarship from the National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan and I received my Master of Science in January 2017. From 2017 till March 2020, I have been working as an R&D researcher in Hyosung Vietnam which focuses on the development of reinforcement materials in tire industry. So basically, my major is Chemical Engineering with understanding of Organic chemistry and Industrial chemistry.
Research Interests: My research interests are heterogeneous catalysis and organic synthesis.
Hobbies: I love mountaineering and trekking. If I have free time at the weekend, I would be so happy to spend time with friends wandering around the forest near SU campus. This is also my first time in Europe, so in the future I will take vacations for exploring beautiful European cities.
Yunfei Bai (ESR #4)
Project: C–C bond forming reactions with CO2 using Lewis acidic zeolite catalysts (WP1)
Email: yfbai@inano.au.dk
Supervisors: Esben Taarning (HT), Ainara Nova (UiO), Troels Skrydstrup (AU)
Background: I obtained my bachelor at North University of China and my Master degree at Tianjin University.
Research Interests: Heterogeneous catalysis, and sustainable chemistry
Hobbies: In my spare time, I like playing basketball, and I also like collecting some HiFi equipment, so welcome to try my earphone collections!
Bjørn Carvalho (ESR #5)
Project: Computational analysis of CO2 – based carboxylation of hydrocarbons (WP1)
Email: bjorn.carvalho@uit.no
Supervisors: Kathrin H. Hopmann (UiT), Luca Frediani (UiT), Per-Ola Norrby (AZ)
Background: I have completed both my Bachelor and Master Degree in Brazil, at Federal Fluminense University (UFF) and Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF), respectively. Ever since my bachelor, I have been very interested and leaned towards Quantum Chemistry and I wanted to work with it in my professional career. So, during my master’s degree I worked in a project that consisted in finding a computational method to reliably and cheaply calculate the coupling constant in Pt(II) complexes with nitrogen ligands.
Research Interests: Since I was a child, I have been very interested in making a difference in the world. Working on this project, “Computational Analysis of CO2 – based carboxylation of hydrocarbons”, gets me in contact with a growing issue in the chemical industry and gives me the chance to directly contribute to a cleaner environment. My interests lie in Computational Chemistry, and for me, the most fascinating thing about it is that it can be applied to basically any field in Chemistry, making it a powerful and important tool for studying, understanding and dealing with arising challenges in Science.
Hobbies: During my free time, I like to play computer and board games with my friends. I also really enjoy cooking. But I would say that my favorite hobby is singing and, in fact, I have performed at some weddings and parties, and I really enjoyed it.
Georgia Kriticou (ESR #6)
Project:Multicomponent functionalization of π-systems incorporating CO2 (WP2)
Email: georgia.kriticou@uzh.ch
Supervisors: Cristina Nevado (UZH), Troels Skrydstrup (AU), Magnus Johansson (AZ)
Background: I have completed an Integrated Masters Degree in Chemistry (MChem) at the University of Durham in England. During my Masters’ I had the opportunity to complete a 12-month industrial placement at GlaxoSmithKline (Stevenage, UK) within the Chemical Development Department.
Research Interests: Organometallic chemistry, homogeneous catalysis and mechanistic understanding of catalytic systems.
Hobbies: In my free time, I enjoy running, swimming and crossfit, as exercising helps me refocus and keep fit. I also enjoy reading fiction and non-fiction books, as well as painting.
Doriane Chauvin (ESR #7)
Project: Efficient synthesis of fluorine-containing oxazolidinones from atmospheric CO2 (WP2)
Email: doriane.chauvin@chem.uzh.ch
Supervisors: Cristina Nevado (UZH), Belén Martín-Matute (SU), Esben Taarning (HT)
Background: I started studying chemistry five years ago with a continuing strong enthusiasm for organic and organometallic chemistry. During my double master’s Degree at the Chemistry school of Strasbourg (ECPM) and the University of Strasbourg, I had the opportunity to complete industrial placements within AstraZeneca (Goteborg) and Alcami corporation (Eindhoven).
Research Interests: Organometallic chemistry and homogeneous catalysis.
Hobbies: In my spare time, I enjoy playing badminton and every sport involving a racket. Playing the ukulele and/or violin is also part of my weekly calendar.
Sahil Gahlawat (ESR #8)
Project: Computational analysis of symmetric and asymmetric oxazolidinone formation from CO2 (WP2)
Email: sahil.gahlawat@uit.no
Supervisors: Kathrin H. Hopmann (UiT), Per-Ola Norrby (AZ), Abril Castro (UiO)
Background: I have pursued my Bachelor’s in chemistry from Motilal Nehru College, Delhi University and after that I continued my education in field of Chemistry by pursuing a Master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee.
Research Interests: I had handful of experience in experimental chemistry during my five years of bachelors and masters and then I got introduced to Computational Chemistry during my Thesis in last semester of masters. After that my research interests drastically switched to the quantum chemical aspects of chemistry including molecular modelling, computational catalysis and applying these theoretical aspects to the field of organometallic and organic chemistry.
Hobbies: I love to relax my soul by doing yoga and exercise. I also like to play and watch cricket. I also enjoy reading newspaper and follow geopolitics.
Stephanie Ton (ESR #9)
Project: Efficient Methods for CO2 Conversion to CO and PET labelling of pharmaceuticals (WP4)
Email: ston@inano.au.dk
Supervisors: Troels Skrydstrup (AU), Rubén Martín (ICIQ), Chad Elmore (AZ), Malvika Sardana (AZ)
Background: : I completed my BSc in medicinal chemistry at the University of Ottawa as well as my MSc in chemistry also from the University of Ottawa.
Research Interests: Organometallic chemistry and organic synthesis.
Hobbies: In my spare time when not in the lab or spending time with friends and family, my hobbies include yoga, baking, and running. I also love to travel and explore new cities around the world.
Mahika Luthra (ESR #10)
Project: Computational insights into the conversion of CO2 to CO and carbonylation reactions (WP3)
Email: mahika.luthra@kjemi.uio.no
Supervisors: Ainara Nova (UiO), Michele Cascella (UiO), Esben Taarning (HT), David Balcells (UiO)
Background: I have done my Bachelor in Chemistry from University of Delhi, India. And I completed my Master from Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.
Research Interests: Molecular Modelling and Simulations, Computational Catalysis and Organometallic Chemistry
Hobbies: I am an admirer of classical dancing and music. In my free time, one would most probably find me reading William Shakespeare novels. I love travelling and meeting new people.
Julien Lyonnet (ESR #11)
Project: Catalytic carboxylation techniques with isotopically labelled CO2 (WP4)
Email: jlyonnet@iciq.es
Supervisors: Rubén Martín (ICIQ), Troels Skrydstrup (AU), Markus Artelsmair (AZ)
Background: I received my Bachelor in chemistry from the University of Geneva where I developed a strong interest for organometallic chemistry. I then moved to Uppsala in Sweden for a Master in organic chemistry. My thesis work focused on CO2 electroreduction using Ru-polypiridyl catalysts within the group of Prof. Sascha Ott.
Research Interests: I always had an interest for any chemistry with the notion of catalysis, this led me to start this PhD working on catalytic carboxylation techniques with isotopically labelled CO2. In order to do so, I will be developing new carboxylation strategies using Ni catalysts which can then be performed using isotopically-enriched CO2.
Hobbies: Playing guitar and listening to music in general when I am at home. Other than that, I am a mountain lover, especially when it comes to skiing. I also enjoy kickboxing as it helps me to stay focused throughout the week.
Kim Saskia Mühlfenzl (ESR #12)
Email: kimsaskia.muehlfenzl@astrazeneca.com
Supervisors: Charles S. Elmore (AZ), Annette Bayer (UiT), Troels Skrydstrup (AU)
Background: I received my B.Sc. in chemistry and biochemistry in 2017 from the Ludwig-Maximilians University (LMU) Munich, where I worked on the total synthesis of a nonadride under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Thomas Magauer. During my master’s studies at the LMU Munich, I carried out an internship at Beiersdorf AG in Hamburg and spent a semester at the University of California, Berkeley in the group of Prof. Richmond Sarpong, where my research was focused on the total synthesis of a sesterterpene in order to obtain my master’s degree in chemistry in 2019.
Research Interests: My project will focus on the “development of late-stage and rapid carboxylation techniques with 14CO2 in drug development programs”. This will include a detailed understanding of the steps involved in these carboxylations and the investigation of easy-to-prepare intermediates for fast carboxylation reactions.
Hobbies: Outside the lab I enjoy hiking, travelling and spending time with my friends and family. I am also interested in interior design and food.
Weiheng Huang (ESR #13)
Project: Catalytic alkoxycarbonylation reactions of unsaturated hydrocarbons with CO2 (WP1)
Email: weiheng.huang@catalysis.de
Supervisors: Matthias Beller (LIKAT), Cristina Nevado (UZH), Robert Franke (EV)
Background: I graduated from Soochow University (China) in 2017. I got my master degree in 2019 from Université de Rennes1 (France). During my master, the main research was hydrosilylation of CO2 using main group element organometallics.
Research Interests: Organometallic chemistry and investigating the potential of carbon dioxide.
Hobbies: In my spare time, the indoor activities I like are watching animation, listening to music and playing video games. In outdoor I like to swim and bicycle.
Jiali Liu (ESR #14)
Project: Theoretical studies on catalytic alkoxycarbonylation and carbonylation reactions with CO2 (WP1)
Email: jiali.liu@evonik.com
Supervisor: Robert Franke (EV)
Background: I learned basic knowledge of heterogeneous catalytic calculation and received my bachelor’s degree from Yantai university, as well as I studied the mechanism of hydrogenation catalyzed by cobalt-based complexes and got my master’s degree from Institute of Coal Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Research Interests: Mechanistic study of homogenous catalysis catalyzed by non-precious metal complexes and catalyst design.
Hobbies: I always listen to music, especially R&B and soul. And sometimes, I read comics and watch talk show.
Pierre Fablet (ESR #15)
Project: Development of catalysts for aminocarbonylation reactions of olefins with CO2 (WP3)
Email: pierre.fablet@catalysis.de
Supervisors: Matthias Beller (LIKAT), Ainara Nova (UiO), Robert Franke (EV)
Background: I graduated and received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Université Paris-Saclay in the field of organic chemistry with a strong focus on organic synthesis. I pursued in this fashion and carried research for 6 months at the end of my M.Sc. in Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles (ICSN) under the supervision of Dr. Stéphanie Norsikian on the total synthesis of fluorescent new self-immolative borinic-containing molecular probes for in cellulo detection of hydrogen peroxide.
Research Interests: My formation and former experiences in research led me to develop strong affinities with organic synthesis, organometallic and boron chemistry. As a swift shift, I have grown increasing interest in catalysis. I believe we can harvest this power to transform the chemical industry and therefore I will work during my PhD on homogeneous catalysis and specifically the application of CO2 in carbonylation reactions to obtain valuable products.
Hobbies: Spending time with friends, hiking, reading, or traveling normally occupy most of my free time. I like cooking and I’m also an avid chess player.