Research Fellow in Synthetic Supramolecular Chemistry - School of Chemistry

Position Details

Area: School of Chemistry in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £30,942 to £40,322 with potential progression once in post to £42,792. PLEASE NOTE - Due to external funding limitations the maximum starting salary that can be offered is £33,797

Band/Grade: Grade 7

Hours: Full time

Duration: Fixed-term for up to 24 months

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK

Closing Date: 20 May 2021

Background

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research fellow in synthetic supramolecular chemistry. This is a UKRI FLF funded position to work with Dr. Sarah Pike on the development of adaptive metallosupramolecular cages.

Metallosupramolecular cages that can demonstrate host-guest chemistry have widespread applications in sensing and catalysis. The development of metallosupramolecular cages that are able to exhibit control over the binding event of the host-guest chemistry are highly sought after as they have the potential to regulate these applications, for example by switching off or on the sensing of specific molecules. The aim of this project is to develop a new range of metallosupramolecular cages that can adapt their host binding properties in a highly controlled manner, in order to exploit responsive host-guest chemistry, for a range of important functional outputs including the sensing of biologically important molecules and for catalysis.

The successful candidate will be highly motivated and have an excellent research track record. The position is ideally suited for an early career researcher with a background in organic supramolecular chemistry.

Summary of Role

• Work within specified research grants and projects including original research in the area of synthetic supramolecular chemistry
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results
• Dissemination of results to wider community through publication and presentation of results at national and international conferences
• Lab supervision of undergraduate students (MChem/MSc) on research projects and providing guidance to PhD students where appropriate
• Opportunities to contribute to public understanding of the discipline

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct high quality research in the field of synthetic supramolecular chemistry within the specified research project
• Carry out multi-step organic synthesis and characterisation of new molecules.
• Characterise the binding between host molecules and target guests using a range of spectroscopic techniques including UV/Vis and NMR titration experiments.
• Analyse and interpret data using a variety of spectroscopic and analytical techniques
• Lead the preparation of research articles for submission to high-quality journals.
• Communicate research findings at research seminars given at conferences and at meetings with collaborators
• Plan and manage research activities
• Take some responsibility for the supervision and training of undergraduate students (e.g. MChem/MSc) on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students within the group
• Take some responsibility with assisting in the day-to-day running of the lab
• Assist with the management of equipment within the research group
• Opportunity to contribute to public engagement activities
• Engage in training programmes within the University (e.g. through staff development)
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• Holds (or is about to obtain) a PhD in chemistry in the area of organic synthesis and/or supramolecular chemistry.
• Experience in organic synthesis is required.
• Experience in supramolecular chemistry is desirable.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to organise time and work independently.
• Ability to work as an effective member of a team.
• Ability to deliver oral presentations, produce draft publications and write internal reports.
• Advanced knowledge of research techniques and methods in order to work effectively within the research programme.
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr. Sarah Pike, s.j.pike@bham.ac.uk

The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, and the School of Chemistry welcomes flexible working to suit family or other commitments. The University has on-campus childcare facilities. The School of Chemistry holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition of its work in promoting women's careers in STEM subjects in higher education.

We value diversity at The University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community

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