Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ultrafast Spectroscopy Applications in Catalysis

Contract type: 2-year fixed-term contract

Hours: Full-time

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0QX

Closing date: 5th June 2025

We are seeking a postdoctoral research associate to join an exciting research programme in the research group of Paul Donaldson, applying the newest techniques of ultrafast infrared spectroscopy to problems in heterogeneous catalysis. The position will provide the applicant with a unique opportunity to make their mark as an early-career scientist through the unique 2D-IR and laser temperature-jump projects of the research programme and by working on the new and state-of-the-art HiLUX facility at CLF-ULTRA.

You will have a PhD in a relevant area of chemistry/physics and be interested in physical chemistry, laser spectroscopy and catalysis science. You will be an experimental scientist adept in the key aspects of modern spectroscopy. You should either have (1) experience in ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy, such as 2D-IR and transient IR, and a strong motivation to do research in heterogeneous catalysis; or (2) a strong track record in applying modern spectroscopic techniques to study heterogeneous catalysts (including zeolites, CZA, SCR and others), along with a strong motivation to learn ultrafast IR spectroscopy.

More information about the research group and the CLF HiLUX project can be found on the CLF area of the STFC website (www.clf.stfc.ac.uk). 

About the Central Laser Facility

The Central Laser Facility (CLF) is a national laboratory at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Oxfordshire and co-located with Diamond Light Source (UK’s national synchrotron radiation facility), the ISIS neutron source and STFC’s space, particle physics and computing departments. The CLF hosts unique ultrafast laser systems that are some of the best in the world. The CLF has around 180 staff and its function – user facilities and international research – makes it a very friendly, outgoing and externally facing place. The CLF has a welcoming and inclusive culture, and you will find that people will naturally help and support you.

As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is one of Europe’s largest research organisations and operates at a number of sites within the UK, including RAL and many more around the world. RAL is home to about 1,200 staff who work with a community of more than 10,000 scientists and engineers (mainly from the research sector), which spans the scientific spectrum including energy, security, materials healthcare, life sciences and the environment, to address important challenges facing society.

Alongside an excellent working environment and comprehensive continued professional development STFC offers a benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance.

To Apply 

Applicants are required to include a CV and cover letter explaining their interest in the role and suitability for the role, and supply the names of two referees who may be contacted after interview.

Responsibilities 

• Scientific research across several projects (lead and support roles).
• Managing and modifying spectroscopy research instrumentation.
• Supporting the operation of the research group’s lab and data infrastructure.
• Sample handling.
• Data analysis and writeup.
• Supporting the group’s scheduled user experiments.
• Writing scientific papers.
• Presenting scientific results at conferences.
• Contributing to the group, department and campus scientific culture.
• Working safely and following STFC H&S policies.

Essential criteria

• A degree and PhD in chemistry, physics or closely related subject (S&I).
• Experience in scientific instrument operation – maintenance, development, data acquisition and control software operation/development (S&I).
• Experience in an area of experimental chemistry or physics which (after training) provides the foundations for the applicant to confidently prepare solid catalyst samples in spectroscopy cells and manage the spectroscopy cell gas feed systems.
• Experience and interest in spectroscopic measurements of condensed phase samples (S&I).
• Deep interest in working in the fields of ultrafast vibrational spectroscopy and heterogeneous catalysis (S&I).
• Track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals (S&I).

STFC values their employees by offering a benefits package designed to provide an excellent work/life balance including 30 days’ annual leave, 10.5 public and privilege holidays, flexible working hours, a workplace nursery, exceptional average salary pension scheme, social and sporting activities and societies and a subsidised restaurant.

As one of Europe’s largest research organisations, this is a place where there’s always something new to learn about the world around us, about your career, but most of all, about yourself. Join us and discover what’s possible.