With generous support from a range of sources, including the Central Government of China, the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Zhuhai City Government, Jinan University (JNU) has established the Institute for Advanced and Applied Chemical Synthesis (IAACS). The institute currently occupies laboratory space on the JNU’s Tianhe (central Guangzhou) campus and shortly it will acquire > 1400 m² of dedicated research space in Zhuhai (a beautiful seaside city adjacent to Macau and about 30 minutes ride from Hong Kong) and as well as another 1500 m2 of space in Guangzhou. The mission of the IAACS is to become, through deploying its wide-ranging skills in chemical synthesis and related activities, a key player in supporting and expanding scientific research within the Pearl River Delta (PRD), one of the most dynamic regions in China. To that end, the IAACS is actively seeking to recruit MSc and PhD candidates as well as appointing post-doctorals and Young Talents (Assistant to Associate Professors). More senior appointments (including at the full and Distinguished Professor levels) of suitably qualified applicants will also be considered. Internationally competitive remuneration and benefits apply at all levels, details of which can be provided to interested parties.

The initial research focus of the IAACS will be on chemical synthesis (interpreted in its broadest sense) including (but not restricted to):
(i) the total synthesis of natural products;
(ii) methodological development;
(iii) the discovery of new chemical reactions;
(iv) medicinal chemistry including chemical aspects of traditional Chinese medicine;
(v) the applications of enzymes in synthesis;
(vi) whole-cell biotransformations;
(vii) catalysis;
(viii) sustainable chemical manufacturing and green chemistry.

Inquiries should be sent to the Director of the IAACS, Professor Martin Banwell AO, FAA, FRACI, FRSC, Hon. DSc, FRSNZ either by Email (mgbanwell@gmail.com) .