Research Fellow

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to July 2028

Background

To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on the synthesis and study of molecular capsules within the synthetic supramolecular chemistry group of Dr Jamie Lewis in the School of Chemistry. The primary aim of the project will be the design and synthesis of robust organic capsules and examining their ability to catalyse reactions within their internal cavities.

Role Summary

• To undertake research into organic molecular capsules and related systems under the supervision of Dr Jamie Lewis.
• To design, synthesise, characterise and test the catalytic properties of molecular capsules and related systems.
• To produce regular reports pertaining to the project as requested; attend regular project meetings; give regular presentations to the group; write papers for publication in peer reviewed scientific journals.
• To play an active role in the Lewis Group, participating in all group meetings and activities. You may help to supervise research students, be responsible for maintenance of equipment and training of personnel on equipment.

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.

• Perform research and collect data in the specified area to a high level of competency and quality.
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results generated from all aspects of the project.
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to support staff and students in the group.
• Disseminate research through conferences, departmental seminars, outreach activities, etc.
• Contribute to writing scientific papers.
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required.
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration.
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding.
• Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• First degree in chemistry, or related area, and normally, a higher degree (PhD) relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications.
• Research profile in the area of synthesis, preferably with a significant proportion in organic chemistry.
• An interest in catalysis/organocatalysis.
• High level analytical capability and experience in use of NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry for the characterisation and structure elucidation of small molecules.
• Ability to keep up to date with new developments in the fields relevant to the project.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team on research programmes. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary project area of research.

Informal enquiries to James Lewis, email: j.e.m.lewis@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Advert information