Research Fellow

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46,049 with potential progression once in post to £48,822

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to January 2028

UK and International travel may be required for this role.

This vacancy may be closed early if we receive sufficient applications for the role

Background

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Fielden Research Group, funded by the European Research Council (ERC), to investigate dynamic nanoemulsions. This project aims to uncover the fundamental mechanisms that control the stability of nanoemulsion systems.

The successful candidate will conduct experimental investigations into dynamic processes, especially Ostwald ripening. They will employ a range of advanced characterisation techniques—such as scattering, microscopy, and rheology—to probe these processes in situ and in real time. The position also offers opportunities to collaborate with expert partners, enabling a deep mechanistic understanding that connects molecular interactions to emergent behaviour.

Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in supramolecular chemistry or a closely related discipline. Experience with soft matter, colloid science or nanoemulsions is desirable, as are skills in kinetic analysis and interfacial characterisation.

The role provides outstanding opportunities for professional and career development, including mentoring students, running collaborative projects, and presenting research at international conferences. You will join a diverse and supportive environment that values creativity, curiosity, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. The Fielden Group and the University are committed to fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of research and recruitment.

Main Duties

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Analyse and interpret data
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods 
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• Hold a PhD, or be close to completing a PhD, in supramolecular chemistry or a closely related discipline.
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively 
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort

Informal enquiries to Stephen Fielden, email: s.fielden@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. Please quote Job Ref 106489 in all enquiries. 

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