Research Associate in Inorganic and Materials Chemistry (Gobbo Group)

The role

The Gobbo Group is working on a research programme focused on the development of methodologies to link protocells together and organise them into extended, free-standing tissue-like materials called protocellular materials . This is accomplished by using a wide range of chemical methodologies including polymerisation, click chemistry, and self-assembly. For further information click here . Funded through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the main responsibility of the Research Associate will be to start tackling the following exciting challenges of protocellular materials design and synthetic construction:

1. the engineering of inter-protocell chemical communication properties;
2. the advancement of the mechanical properties of protocellular materials;
3. the application of protocellular materials in different fields of science and technology.

What will you be doing?

The main responsibilities of the research associate will be:

• Undertake research into the design and multi-step synthesis of functional molecules and materials.
• Develop experimental methodologies to assemble protocells into protocellular materials and characterise their mechanical and tissue-like properties.
• Explore applications of protocellular materials in different fields of science and technology.
• Write reports and contributing towards the drafting of scientific papers, including collating supporting information. Scientific communication through presentation of results in group meetings, school-wide research seminars and at scientific conferences. Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of relevant literature related to the research project.
• Regular submission of written reports on experimental results. Accurate recording and interpretation of experimental results.
• Co-ordination of your own work and day-to-day research activities. Active engagement with the planning and development of the research project and with other research programmes in the group.
• Contribute to the day-to-day supervision of PhD and undergraduate student projects.
• Conduct all necessary administrative tasks associated with the successful progress of the research project (accurate data recording, written reports, papers, conference papers and presentations, up-to-date literature knowledge).
• Perform administrative tasks associated with the smooth running of the research group (ordering consumables and chemicals, actively engaging in research meetings etc.).

You should apply if

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic researcher, with excellent organizational and communication skills. The successful candidate will hold (or be working towards) a PhD in organic or materials chemistry. While previous experience in the field of protocell design is not required, experience in functional molecules, polymers or nanomaterials synthesis and characterization is essential.

Applications should include a curriculum vitae with a list of publications and a cover letter which should introduce the candidate's background and clearly state why they would like to work with us and what they can bring to the group. The candidates should also provide the names of 3 referees who have been former supervisors and can be contacted for a reference letter.

We welcome applications from all members of our community and are particularly encouraging those from diverse groups, such as members of the LGBT+ and BAME communities, to join us.