Research Associate in Synthetic Chemistry

We are looking for a passionate and creative scientist to join the group of Dr Aaron Trowbridge as a Research Associate at the University of Manchester (Department of Chemistry). The successful candidate will work as part of a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team seeking to design new synthetic transformations using visible light. The post is available from 1st December 2025, or soon thereafter, for 1 year in the first instance, with the potential for renewal for a further year. The post is part of an EPSRC-funded research programme (PhotoOxyEdit), looking to develop photochemical methods for late-stage atomic oxygen insertion and single-atom editing of function-oriented molecules. These will expand the current chemical space towards previously inaccessible molecular architectures, and streamline the synthesis of function-oriented molecules. Specifically, we are looking for a synthetic chemist who is interested in new challenges and developing their skills in the field of molecular editing. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art instrumentation and collaborate with experts within a world-renowned department.

The candidate should hold a PhD in organic chemistry, or related field, and have a strong background in organic synthesis and a demonstrable track record of high-quality research. Previous experience in photochemistry and radical chemistry would be ideal, but is not essential. The candidate should have excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills to ensure success within a diverse research environment. Our research group is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive space for all, where all members are encouraged to contribute to our scientific community by sharing knowledge and developing ideas. Our group values and prioritises diversity, equality, and inclusion, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates who contribute to these goals.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

The School of Chemistry is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality in higher education. The School holds a Silver Award which recognises their good practice in relation to gender; including flexible working arrangements, family-friendly policies, and support to allow staff to achieve a good work-life balance. We particularly welcome applications from women for this post. Appointment will always be made on merit. For further information, please visit www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan.

We positively welcome applications from women, who are currently under-represented at this grade. An appointment will be made on merit.

The University will actively foster a culture of inclusion and diversity and will seek to achieve true equality of opportunity for all members of its community.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Aaron Trowbridge

Email: aaron.trowbridge@manchester.ac.uk

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