Senior Research Associate in the Spectroscopy & Dynamics of Photomolecular Motors

Salary on appointment will be £38,784 per annum, with an annual increment up to £46,049 per annum. 

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Research Associate to join the School of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Pharmacology to conduct studies on understanding the excited- and ground-state dynamics of photomolecular motors (PMMs) in the gas and condensed phases. PMMs, based on overcrowded alkenes, enable the conversion of light into directional molecular motion required for microscopic machines. Coupled PMMs have demonstrated concerted, directional intramolecular rotation to support molecular translation. These dynamics are driven by successive photoisomerisation and thermal helix inversion (THI) steps. Synthetic efforts have optimised the rate of THI but often at the expense of isomerisation yield. The ultimate goal of the project is to use ultrafast spectroscopic techniques, including gas-phase methods such as tandem ion mobility mass spectrometry and time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy, together with solution-phase transient absorption, to uncover the detailed mechanism of PMMs. This understanding will guide the rational design of improved derivatives. 

The project will focus on a series of unsymmetrical PMM derivatives containing electron-donating and electron-withdrawing groups to modify charge-transfer and polarisation effects along the reaction coordinate. Experiments will use custom-built vacuum instrumentation and high-powered laser systems to determine how environmental factors (e.g., solvent identity and viscosity) affect the dynamics (lifetimes, branching ratios) and isomerisation yield. Many of the experimental capabilities in our laboratory are unique worldwide, enabling the preparation, separation, and study of short-lived intermediates that may occur in gas-phase PMM cycles.

As a Senior Research Associate you will contribute ideas and/or enhancement of techniques or methodologies. You will analyse and interpret data, write up results and present information on research progress and outcomes. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to grant applications and may be involved in the supervision of researchers and teaching of students within the School.

You will have a postgraduate level research degree in Physical Chemistry or Physics (or equivalent qualification) or experience in a relevant research area of gas phase and laser spectroscopy. You will also have experience of independent research, have publications in respected journals or equivalent within the field and be able to work in a proactive and results driven manner in a high paced environment. You will also have strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to analyse and interpret data and work effectively as part of a team. Advanced skills directly relating to this research area and experience teaching small classes and/or overseeing practices would be advantageous.

This full-time post is available from 19 January 2026 on a fixed term basis for three years. 

Further information on our great benefits package, including 44 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and additional University Customary days (pro rata for part-time), can be found on our benefits page.    

Closing date: 17 November 2025 

The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality.

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