Research Assistant/Associate in National Crystallography Service

Company description:

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

Job description:

Salary:  

Research Assistant: £33,002 to £34,610 per annum, pro rata

Research Associate: £35,608 to £39,906 per annum, pro rata

The Role

Applications are invited for an expert in single crystal diffraction to work with Prof. Michael Probert in Chemistry at the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences (SNES), Newcastle University as part of the team delivering the EPSRC National X-ray Crystallography Service (NCS). The role will be centred around the provision of a high throughput crystallisation service and access to extreme conditions diffraction experiments for users of the NCS.

The post (0.5 FTE) will involve the extensive use of crystallisation and diffraction techniques to fully characterise principally molecular materials, crystallised via utilisation of high throughput nanodroplet techniques. With additional work undertaken to elucidate the structural response of crystalline materials under a variety of extreme conditions (ultra-low temperature and high pressure). The studies will be performed in-house using the world-leading instrumentation available in the laboratory of Prof. Probert, as well as via access to the UK’s national synchrotron facility (Diamond Light Source). The in-house facilities include 6 single crystal diffractometers with a range of X-radiation wavelengths available (Ag, Cu and Mo) alongside state-of-the-art liquid handling robots for high throughput crystallisation.

The broad aim of the project is to enhance the deliverables of the NCS to aid users in obtaining crystallographic data on a range of materials across a range of environmental conditions. As part of a team, you will be responsible for setting up and running experiments using bespoke crystallisation techniques and a unique suite of diffraction equipment, for which full training will be provided Familiarity with single crystal X-ray diffraction techniques is a necessity with experience of non-standard experimental design including extreme conditions a strong benefit.

You must hold or be about to obtain, a PhD or equivalent in chemistry, physics, materials sciences, or a related field and a strong background in the analysis of crystalline materials. You should also have the ability to play a leading role within the research team. A track record of publishing research in high quality journals and experience supervising student research projects, commensurate with your experience level, is also desirable. You will also be encouraged to participate in the group’s vibrant outreach programme.

This role has secured funding until June 2027.

Please contact Prof. Michael Probert michael.probert@ncl.ac.uk with informal inquiries about the post. Formal applications should be submitted through the University job applications portal and can be done so by uploading your CV along with a cover letter evidencing how your skills and experience align to the criteria as outlined within the job decription.

Applications from candidates wishing to explore flexible working options will be considered.

Further information can be found here 

Staff Profile | School of Natural and Environmental Sciences | Newcastle University

https://www.ncl.ac.uk/nes/our-research/chemistry/

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