Research Associate for EPSRC-NSF Lead Agency Opportunity (Task B)

Job reference: SAE-030276
Salary: £37,694 to £41,064 per annum, depending on relevant experience
Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering
Location: Oxford Road
Employment type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Department of Chemistry
Hours Per Week: Full Time
Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 18/12/2025
Contract Duration: From 1 January 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter for 18 months (with the possibility to extend after 18 months)
School/Directorate: School of Natural Sciences

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellowship funded jointly by EPSRC/NSF to work in the Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester under the supervision of Professor Martin Schröder. The project is an interdisciplinary collaboration with Professors Lev Sarkisov (Manchester, Lead PI), Alexander Neimark (Rutgers), Mathias Steiner (IBM), Yongqiang Cheng (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) combining synthesis, characterisation and modelling /theory to advance the chemistry of metal-organic framework materials.

The project will involve the synthesis, studies and analysis of porous metal organic framework materials with the aim of developing new functional materials for proton conductivity and catalysis of water splitting. The project will involve the study of properties and reactivity of water within confined space working closely with colleagues in modelling, including working at National Facilities to undertake state of the art characterisation and analysis of materials.

Candidates must have a PhD (or equivalent) or about to submit for a PhD in synthetic co-ordination, supramolecular self-assembly, catalysis, or organic chemistry, and have a record of research achievement, publication and independent thinking. Experience in the development of metal organic framework materials would be highly beneficial.

The post will be offered on a fixed-term 18 month contract (with the possibility to extend after 18 months) with a probationary period of 6 months.

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

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

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

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we unfortunately may not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Professor M Schröder

Email: m.schroder@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

0161 850 2004 https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

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