Research Fellow

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

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract (12 months)

Description of the Group

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join the Schnepp Research Group on an industry funded project. The project will involve the synthesis and characterization of carbon/iron carbide materials for applications in electromagnetic attenuation. This position is available on a fixed-term basis for 12 months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of further funding. The responsibilities may include:

• Synthesis of a range of iron carbide/carbon materials using sol-gel and templating methods.
• Characterize carbon/iron carbide materials using techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy.
• Prepare regular reports and presentations.
• Liaise regularly with industrial funders to optimise properties of produced materials.
• Contribute to general running of the research lab, including working with other group members and other research groups to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

Person Specification

• A PhD (or near to completion) in Chemistry or a closely related discipline (or thesis submitted prior to appointment).
• Demonstrable expertise in materials chemistry, including the design, synthesis and characterisation of solid-state materials, ideally carbons or carbides.
• Demonstrable expertise in synthetic materials chemistry techniques, such as use of high temperature furnaces.
• Demonstrable expertise in the analysis of materials using techniques such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and porosimetry.
• A strong academic publication record appropriate to career stage, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications or manuscripts in preparation.
• Ability to design, plan and deliver high-quality research with a high degree of autonomy.
• Strong problem-solving skills, scientific creativity and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present research to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Ability to work effectively both on their own and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.

Informal enquiries can be made to Zoe Schnepp (z.schnepp@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.

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We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

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