Characterisation PDRA

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

The Research Associate at the University of Cambridge will contribute to the Autonomous Materials Group, delivering a multimodal screening workflow for inorganic nanoparticles. You will identify synthesis conditions that yield defined particle sizes, shapes and crystalline phases, and interpret results across DLS, spectroscopy and diffraction.

You will collaborate with protein design, biomineralisation and advanced characterisation teams, draft manuscripts, and supervise Master’s and PhD

Qualifications

• PhD required with research focused on inorganic nanoparticle synthesis and characterisation.
• Ability to integrate data across multiple analytical techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop multimodal screening workflow for nanoparticle synthesis.
• Identify synthesis conditions delivering target nanomaterials properties.
• Collaborate across design, biomineralisation and characterization teams.
• Draft scientific manuscripts and supervise MSc/PhD students.

Skills

Solution-phase synthesis

Particle size control

Shape control

Crystalline phase control

In-line colloidal characterization

Python data analysis

High-throughput experimentation

Education

PhD in Materials Science or related

Tools

Dynamic light scattering

UV-Vis spectroscopy

Raman spectroscopy

Powder X-ray diffraction

Electron microscopy (TEM/SEM)

SQUID magnetometry

Job description

Fixed-term:

The Research Associate position is available from 1 February 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter, for 12 months.

Applicants should have experience in the solution-phase synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles with control over particle size, shape and crystalline phase, and in characterising both the colloidal state of nanoparticle dispersions (e.g. dynamic light scattering, optical microscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy) and their crystalline phase (e.g. Raman spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction), with the judgement to reconcile results across techniques. Hands‑on experience with in‑line colloidal characterisation is desirable. Python skills for data analysis and a demonstrated interest in high-throughput experimental methods are essential.

Experience in bio‑templated or protein‑mediated mineralisation, protein–inorganic interfaces, or functional inorganic nanomaterials (e.g. magnetic or optical) is desirable, as is prior experience of high‑throughput or automated experimentation and data‑driven experimental design (e.g. Bayesian optimisation). Electron microscopy and magnetometry are carried out with project collaborators; experience in preparing samples for, and interpreting, scanning or transmission electron microscopy or SQUID magnetometry is welcome but not required.

The successful candidate will contribute intellectually to research on the protein‑templated assembly of inorganic nanoparticles. They will establish and run a multimodal, multi‑fidelity screening workflow, including rapid colloidal screening followed by phase identification to find synthesis conditions that deliver these targets and to understand the assembly across length scales. They will work closely with the protein design, biomineralisation and advanced characterisation teams across the project; teamwork is essential to the role. They will also contribute to drafting scientific manuscripts and support the day‑to‑day supervision of Master’s and PhD students.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline, and demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team spanning chemistry, biology, physics, mechanical engineering, and computer science. The successful candidate will work in the Autonomous Materials Group under the supervision of Dr Shijing Sun and collaborate across the ARIA project teams.

This job is part of an Advanced Research + Invention Agency‑funded project; as a result funding for this position is only confirmed for 12 months.

Further details can be discussed at interview.

Successful candidates who have not yet received their PhD by 1 January 2027 will be employed on University Grade 5 SP038 as Research Assistants (£35,302).

Upon being awarded their PhD, their salary will be upgraded to Grade 7 041 (£38,448) as Research Associates.

We encourage early applications, as the vacancy may close before the advertised deadline if a sufficient number of suitable applications are received.

Should you have any queries, please reach out to Ana Talaban‑Bailey: [e-mail], with a copy to: [e-mail]

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.