Research Assistant/Associate in HTP Crystallography

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.

Salary
Research Assistant - £33,002 to £34,610 per annum.
Research Associate - £35,608 to £37,694 per annum.

The Role
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position (PDRA) in single crystal X-ray diffraction, to work with Dr. Michael Hall and Prof. Michael Probert in Chemistry, at the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences (SNES), Newcastle University. This position is funded by Innovate UK as part of the Sustainable Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Programme (SMMIP), in collaboration with AstraZeneca and Indicatrix Crystallography. The role will be centred around the development of a high throughput single crystal X-ray diffraction platform, compatible with previously developed high throughput nanodroplet crystallisation methods developed at Newcastle (ENaCt, Chem 2020, 6(7), 1755-1765).

The full-time post (1 FTE) will involve the development of methodology, instrumentation and workflows, to enable rapid high throughput single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of small organic molecules, with a focus on pharmaceuticals. This will require extensive use of crystallisation methods and diffraction techniques to fully characterise molecular materials. The project will be performed in-house using the world-leading X-ray diffraction instrumentation available at Newcastle. 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. This project will have dedicated use of a high specification modern single crystal diffractometer, to be installed in early 2026.

As part of a team, both at Newcastle and as part of the wider collaboration, 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 instrumentation design a strong benefit.

The appointment is available from January 2026 for an initial term of 12 months, with the potential for extension.

Please contact Dr Michael Hall michael.hall@newcastle.ac.uk or Prof. Michael Probert michael.probert@ncl.ac.uk with informal inquiries about the post.

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.

The appointment is available from January 2026 for an initial term of 12 months, with the potential for extension.

Formal applications should be submitted through the University job applications portal (available on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button).

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level. Also include information about the Academic Service/Unit they will be working in covering strategic aims, values and culture.

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