Postdoctoral Research Associate
Postdoctoral Research Associate
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Job Description
Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Salary: Grade
Contract Type: Full Time 1FTE) Fixed Term 36 Months)
Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days for all full time staff (Part time workers should pro rata this by their FTE). Use our total rewards calculator: see the value of benefits provided by HeriotWatt University
Detailed Description
The Dalgarno Group in the Institute of Chemical Sciences at HeriotWatt University are seeking a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) with expertise in synthetic supramolecular / macrocyclic and coordination chemistries and ideally some experience of molecular magnetism. The postholder will combine in/organic synthesis single crystal and powder Xray diffraction to assemble and structurally characterise new highly symmetric molecular magnets working with collaborators to develop magnetostructural correlations to discover and understand novel magnetic phenomena. This is an exciting opportunity to join a successful interdisciplinary team with access to a wide range of world class facilities for synthesising and characterising new coordination clusters supported by novel building blocks. The work will be undertaken in collaboration with Prof. Euan Brechin and Prof. Chris Stock and in addition to offering the chance to develop new skills in crossdisciplinary techniques and pursue cuttingedge research there will be opportunities to develop creativity and management skills. Candidates will be required to work meticulously to develop robust and reliable syntheses for both ligands and novel coordination clusters under a range of conditions. Candidates must also be able to work well independently but also as part of a large team regularly reporting on progress to collaborators as well as broader audiences through e.g. conference presentations.
Candidates must hold a PhD degree in supramolecular chemistry and will have experience in the synthesis modification analysis and structural characterisation of calixarenes (or other relevant macrocyclic platforms). With roles in research practical application and knowledge sharing the candidate will be required to have significant practical / analytical experience and integrated knowledge of supramolecular / calixarene / macrocycle chemistry.
The post is fixed term (up to 36 months) and salary is based on the standard academic and related pay scale but will start at Grade 7 spine point 30. The postdoctoral minimum is at spine point 28. An enhanced professional development package will be provided to the selected candidate.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct and manage research and related administrative activities with guidance as required ensuring that project aims and objectives are met; development of novel high symmetry polymetallic cages of paramagnetic transition and lanthanide metal ions including organic and inorganic syntheses single crystal and powder XRD and all associated data analysis.
- Maintain accurate and uptodate records to document the research project and its progress. Regular reporting of progress both written and oral to the PI and other members of the research team. Manage Health and Safety risk assessments.
- Working as part of a large team provide a leading role in ensuring the smooth running of the laboratory.
- Working closely with the supervisory team develop and plan future research objectives.
- Contribute proactively to dissemination of research findings through conference presentations and drafting peerreview publications.
- Attend and present findings at research group meetings.
- Take part in the annual professional development review cycle to ensure skills sets are kept up to date and to identify any training needs relevant to the research.
- Ensure that all data collection undertaken as part of the project is done so ethically and in line with UK (GDPR) privacy and data protection policies and in compliance with the requirements of the funder.
- Provide tutoring and assist in the supervision of PhD candidates and undergraduate student research projects as necessary.
Please note that this job description is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post and its general responsibilities. Activities may be subject to amendment over time as the role develops and/or priorities and requirements evolve.
Education Qualifications and Experience
Essential
Education & Qualifications
- PhD in synthetic supramolecular chemistry or have submitted a PhD thesis prior to taking up the appointment.
- The candidate will be expected to have significant practical experience in synthetic calixarene (or other related macrocyclic) chemistry.
- A demonstrable record of success in previous research as judged by publications in highquality peerreviewed journals with evidence supporting intellectual and practical contributions to previous work.
- The candidate is expected to have experience in experimental design and associated risk assessments.
Competencies Skills & Knowledge
- Expertise in all routine analytical techniques (NMR MS IR UVvis microanalysis) and the ability to handle complex single crystal Xray structures is essential.
- An Ability to conceptualise problems and develop wellreasoned and logical viewpoints.
- An ability to convey detailed information in an articulate and enthusiastic manner is essential.
- Will be required to work meticulously in data gathering to develop robust mechanisms for research in addition to developing readily accessible methodologies.
- Fluent (verbal and written) in English.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Software (Microsoft Word Excel PowerPoint) Scientific Data Analysis and Graphing Tools and other relevant computerbased tools used in a modern research environment.
- Hardworking punctual proactive willing to learn new methods and techniques.
- Must be able to work well independently but also as part of a team providing leadership to junior colleagues.
- Flexible selfmotivated and able to plan work for maximum efficiency.
- Good interpersonal and supervisory skills.
Desirable
- Experience with PXRD.
- Extensive knowledge of synthetic coordination chemistry.
- Interest / familiarity / experience with molecular magnetism.
- Experience of supervising PGRs in a research lab setting.
- Enjoys being part of large and diverse team and willing to take a hands on approach from the outset.
How to Apply
Please must submit via the HeriotWatt online recruitment system 1 Cover letter describing you interest and suitability for the post; 2 CV
Applications can be submitted until midnight on Wednesday 14th May 2025.
At Heriot Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.
Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with wellbeing and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.
HeriotWattUniversity is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected trained promoted appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.
HeriotWattUniversity values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information please see our website also our awardwinning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. parttime working and job share options.
Use our total rewards calculator: see the value of benefits provided by HeriotWatt University.
Required Experience:
IC
Employment Type
Full-Time
