Research Fellow in Heterogeneous Catalysis

Functional, Inorganic, Materials & Supramolecular Chemistry

Location:  Highfield Campus
Salary:   £32,236 to £33,199 per annum
Full Time Fixed Term (until 31/12/2020)
Closing Date:  Friday 30 November 2018
Interview Date:   To be confirmed
Reference:  1073218EB

We are seeking a postdoctoral research fellow who will contribute to the implementation of EU sustainability initiatives, through the validation of novel concepts in hybrid materials design for heterogeneous catalysis.  The project aims to tackle the problems associated with current hybrid catalysts, through a rational engineering of functionalised active sites within diverse pore architectures.This project will also focus on evaluating the catalytic potential of hybrid materials, with a view to establishing their proficiency in industrially significant fine-chemical and pharmaceutical transformations. The candidate will have the opportunity to develop proficiency in synergistic catalysis, by working alongside world-leading academic and industrial partners.  

This is a unique opportunity for a dynamic and ambitious experimental researcher to contribute to the predictive design and engineering of porous organic-inorganic hybrid materials and exploiting their potential in multi-step catalytic processes of industrial interest.The successful candidate should have a first-hand experimental knowledge in developing innovative design strategies for creating multifunctional, hybrid heterogeneous catalysts, with a keen interest in developing sustainable technology for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.  The applicant will join a vibrant and well-established research group who are interested in the discovery and design of novel catalytic materials that address fundamental challenges in the chemical, environmental and energy landscape. 

Candidates should have a PhD or equivalent professional qualification in chemistry or related discipline and a strong track record to demonstrate academic and research excellence. Applications from candidates who have submitted their PhD thesis will also be considered, subject to satisfying the essential criteria for this position. Potential candidates should also demonstrate an ability to write research papers independently, present their work at international conferences and be able to work successfully with multidisciplinary teams.  Additional experience in heterogeneous catalysis with particular emphasis on carbon-heteroatom bond formation would be desirable.

This position is fully funded under the European Commission Horizon 2020 program for 24 months. The project will be supervised by Professor Robert Raja (http://www.southampton.ac.uk/chemistry/about/staff/rr3.page) and will involve collaborations with Dr Ramon Rios (Southampton) and with the consortium partners of Multi2HyCat (https://www.multi2hycat.eu/).  Applicants must therefore have a strong interest for interdisciplinary research.  For additional information relating to this position, please contact Professor Robert Raja (R.Raja@soton.ac.uk).

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. 

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

Application Procedure

You should submit your completed online application form at https://jobs.soton.ac.uk. The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Elsa Samwell (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 2507. Please quote reference 1073218EB on all correspondence.