Postdoctoral Research Associate in Synthesis of Chemical Sensors

We invite applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate in Synthesis of Chemical Sensors in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Bath.

About the role:

You will work on a UKRI-funded project on the synthesis and development of colorimetric chemosensors/chemodosimeters for the detection of nitrous oxide, with specific focus on detection in seawater.

This project is a collaboration with the National Oceanographic Centre in Southampton. A key goal of the project will be to take small molecule chemical sensor(s) for nitrous oxide and apply them in NOC’s established “lap-on-chip” microfluidic sensor technology. 

The long-term aim is to develop an autonomous system for measuring nitrous oxide levels in seawater that can deployed on buoys at sea for prolonged periods. 

This role is available until January 2024 on a full-time basis. Alternatively, part-time working arrangements could be agreed, subject to negotiation.

Informal enquiries relating to this position may be directed to Dr Simon Lewis by email at [email protected] .

About you:

The post requires a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry first and foremost. 

Experience of chemosensor synthesis, or analytical techniques relevant to water contaminants is desirable but not essential, as is any relevant experience of product development.

A proven track record in conducting high quality research, evidenced by publications in peer reviewed journal as well as well as excellent communication skills are essential.

Applicants should have (or be about to obtain) a PhD in synthetic organic chemistry, chemical/environmental engineering, or a related discipline.

About us:

The Department of Chemistry is internationally renowned, with 98% of our research rated at either world-leading or internationally excellent in the most recent REF exercise. 

We offer a well-equipped and supportive department that provides an excellent environment for teaching, learning, and research.

For examples of chemosensors synthesised by us to detect other analytes in water, see: 

Chemical Communications, 2017, 53, 12580, doi:10.1039/c7cc07416f

Frontiers in Chemistry, 2020, 8, 10, doi:10.3389/fchem.2020.00010

Frontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering, 2020, 14, 90, doi:10.1007/s11705-019-1790-7

Analyst, 2020, 145, 6262, doi:10.1039/d0an01404d

For the importance of nitrous oxide monitoring in environmental science, see: 

Frontiers in Marine Science, 2019, 6, 157, doi:10.3389/fmars.2019.00157

What we can offer you:

We aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award , as mentioned above. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students, so we encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on our teams. 

We are very proud to be an autism friendly university and are an accredited Disability Confident Leader; committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff .

Find out from our staff what makes the University of Bath a great place to work. Follow us @UniofBath and @UniofBathJobs on Twitter for more information.

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Further details:

Visa information

If you think you may require a visa to work in the UK, you should refer to our guidance on the Skilled Worker Visa  before embarking on a job application to ensure you understand the requirements for sponsorship. You may be eligible to work in the UK via other alternative visa routes such as the Global Talent Visa or by having Settlement / Indefinite Leave to Remain − please refer to our Staff Immigration webpages  for further details.

Update to our application process

We are constantly seeking to reduce the unconscious bias that enters any assessment process, with the goal of creating an inclusive and equal assessment process. To support this, personal details will be removed from application forms at the initial shortlisting stage.