Research Fellow - Mechanistic Study of Mineral Oil Degradation in Transformers

The TOPICS II project aims to increase understanding of failure mechanisms in power transformers in order to identify when failures are likely to occur and to develop mitigation strategies. The Research Fellow will focus on the mechanistic organic chemistry involved in the thermal breakdown of mineral oils used in transformers, and to understand the factors contributing to degradation. The approach will combine laboratory experimental work in flow reactors, to recreate thermally stressed conditions within transformers, with analytical methods to identify compounds indicative of breakdown.

Suitable candidates must have a good degree in Chemistry, a PhD or equivalent in Chemistry or be close to submission of their thesis, and a strong track record of academic research in chemical science. They should have a keen interest in mechanistic organic chemistry. Prior experience and expertise in either organic chemistry, or analytical techniques (Gas or LiquidChromatography, Mass Spectrometry) is required. An understanding of organic reaction mechanisms is also required. Experience of flow chemistry is desirable, and it would also be beneficial to have experience of conducting reactions at high temperatures. The successful candidate will be responsible for day-to-day management of the project locally and will be required to liaise directly with the University supervisors, members of the TOPICS II team, and work closely with the sponsor. The successful candidate will be expected to report to the sponsor at regular meetings, and will also be responsible for preparation of publications and presentations at conferences and project meetings.

The post is funded for 12 months in the first instance, with a possibility of extension. For additional information please contact Professor Richard Brown (rcb1@soton.ac.uk) by email. For examples of published work from the Southampton team working on chemical research related to power transformers:

1. Facciotti, M.; Amaro, P. S.; Brown, R. C. D.; Lewin, P.L.; Pilgrim, J. A.; Wilson, G.; Jarman, P. N.; Fletcher, I. W., Staticsecondary ion mass spectrometry investigation of corrosion inhibitor Irgamet^®39 on copper surfaces treated in power transformer insulating oil. CorrosSci 2015,98, 450–456.
2. Facciotti, M.; Amaro, P. S.; Holt, A. F.; Brown, R. C.D.; Lewin, P. L.; Pilgrim, J. A.; Wilson, G.; Jarman, P. N., Contact-based corrosion mechanism leading to copper sulphide deposition on insulating paper used in oil-immersed electrical power equipment. Corros Sci 2014,84,172–179.

 

The University of Southampton is a leading UK university, ranked 8th in the UK in REF2014. The Chemistry department was ranked 6th in the UK for research intensity in REF2014.

Applications will be considered from candidates who are nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification or equivalent.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon completion of PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

 

Application Procedure: 

The vacancy will close at midnight on the closing date as shown above. If you need any assistance, please contact +44 (0) 23 8059 9002. Please quote vacancy reference number 958718EB on all correspondence.

At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality.  The University recognises that employees may wish to have working patterns that fit with their caring responsibilities or work-life balance.  Due consideration will also be given to applicants who have had career breaks for reasons including maternity, paternity or adoption leave,disability or illness.  Both the University of Southampton and Chemistry are proud to hold Athena Swan Silver Awards.

 

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.