Research Assistant in Gold Catalysis

The Role and Department

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in Gold Catalysis with a particular emphasis on the combination of gold complexes with hydrogen-bond donors.

In the North of England, has been a world top 100 university for the last ten years (QS Rankings). Our Chemistry degree is among the best ones in the UK: 5^th in the Complete University Guide 2026, 9^th in The Times University Guide 2025 and 8^th in the Guardian University Guide 2025. Durham University is one of the UK’s most historic universities, sitting in a beautiful, hilly city whose Romanesque Cathedral is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a research assistant in Durham, you will become part of a friendly international community and benefit from cutting-edge facilities.

The is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation and located in the Science Campus, a short walk away from Durham old town.

The is an enthusiastic and inclusive team, which as of June 2026 comprises three PDRAs, three PhD students and one Summer student, with four different nationalities. Our laboratory has been recently refurbished and hosts a range of dedicated instruments (visit for details).

The successful applicant will be expected to conduct experimental research in the laboratory.

Responsibilities:

• To understand and convey information which needs careful explanation to the team or group of people through presentations, discussions and meetings which contribute to the production of research reports and publications.
• To write up results of research work, present information on research progress and outcomes to bodies supervising research in a clear and accurate manner.
• To analyse or undertake basic research by deciding how best to apply existing methodology according to overall context and objectives.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To assist in contributing to support student projects on the use of research methods and equipment.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by attending relevant training and development courses.

This post is fixed term for is fixed term for six months, as at present funding is available from 01/10/2026 to 31/03/2027 only.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by Dr Allegra Franchino, Associate Professor. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 01/10/26

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