PDRA - EPSRC SURFACTANT Project

University of the West of Scotland – School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences

Paisley Campus

Full time: 35 hours per week

Fixed Term: 3 years 

This role involves contributing to cutting-edge research in surface analysis and related disciplines. Initially, the scope of work will be clearly defined, but may evolve in response to research outcomes and strategic direction set by the project team.

The successful candidate will be expected to prioritise tasks effectively and deliver results aligned with project goals. Day-to-day responsibilities will include making informed decisions and applying professional judgement to guide the progress and direction of assigned projects. Significant changes in project direction will be discussed collaboratively during weekly team meetings.

This role requires a strong foundation in surface analysis, along with relevant experience in conducting research within this field. The postholder will also be expected to collaborate closely with other team members and support postgraduate research students, contributing their expertise to foster a productive and innovative research environment.

The successful candidate should have the following:

• PhD in chemistry, physics materials science or engineering with research experience in surface analysis and or other closely related areas
• Experience of designing and implementing surface analysis solutions
• Experience in developing practical solutions to real-world use cases
• Experience in system definition and integration
• Publication record in international journals and conferences
• Experience of making oral presentations at conferences, workshops, and meetings 

ABOUT US

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others. 

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2024 Young University Rankings).

The School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences offers industry-focussed teaching and research opportunities that deliver solutions to real-world problems. You will join an innovative and supportive team, playing a key role in driving forward our ambition to deliver transformational change, through outputs that have a tangible, early and positive impact on society across the globe. Our students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, extensive expertise in research and development, and our robust collaborations with multinational companies across the world.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:

• 35 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
• An additional days leave on your birthday
• Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
• Fitness facilities across our campuses
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional, career and research development opportunities.

Closing Date: Sunday 31^st August 2025

Interview Date: Week commencing 8^th September 2025

Please note that the appointment will be made on the first point of the salary scale (unless by exception, where evidence would need to be provided)

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS are committed signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant.

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.