Post-doctoral Research Associate in Homogenous Catalysis - AR3348

University of St Andrews; St Andrews; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

USS Pension Scheme

Hybrid work environment

Staff discount

Job summary

University of St Andrews invites applications for a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate position to work in organometallic chemistry, homogeneous catalysis, and polymer chemistry. The project aims to develop new catalysts and methods for renewable plastics using dehydrogenation/hydrogenation. Start date 1 February 2027; 36.25 hours per week, hybrid working where possible.

Ph.D. in chemistry required with strong background in homogeneous catalysis; polymer chemistry experience desirable.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in chemistry with proven track record in homogeneous catalysis, organic and organometallic chemistry.
• Experience in polymer chemistry (polymer synthesis/characterisation) is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, good time-management, ability to work independently yet collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day technical assistance and guidance to undergraduate and PhD students.
• Lead day-to-day running of the laboratory and upkeep of equipment.
• Carry out experimental risk assessments and ensure safe research practices.

Skills

Homogeneous catalysis

Polymer chemistry

Education

Ph.D. in chemistry

Job description

Start date: 1 February 2027

Fixed term: 2 years

Applications are invited for a 2-year Postdoctoral Research Associate position to work with Dr. Amit Kumar at the School of Chemistry, University of St. Andrews, on the topics of organometallic chemistry, homogeneous catalysis, and polymer chemistry. The project aims to develop new organometallic catalysts and methodologies for the synthesis and recycling of renewable plastics, in particular using the approach of dehydrogenation and hydrogenation reactions. This role is available on a fixed-term basis for 2 years (with a possibility of extension) and is available to start on the 1st Feb 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. Hours of work are full-time (36.25 hours). Flexible working hours may be discussed.

Principal duties

• To provide day-to-day technical assistance and guidance to undergraduate and PhD students within the group, and to provide direction in chemical research.
• To take leadership in the day-to-day running of the laboratory and upkeep of equipment.
• Carrying out experimental risk assessments and ensure that your research is carried out safely.

Eligibility

You will have a Ph.D. in chemistry with a proven track record in homogeneous catalysis, organic, and organometallic chemistry. Experience of working in polymer chemistry (e.g. polymer synthesis/characterisation) is desirable. Effective written and verbal communication skills, good time-management and the ability to work independently, yet within a collaborative environment, are essential.

Further information and informal enquiries may be directed to Dr. Amit Kumar, email: [e-mail] Tel: [phone].

In addition to the salary on offer for this position, there are a wide range of benefits for staff working at the University of St Andrews:

• Financial contribution to relocation (subject to eligibility).
• Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with a generous employer contribution of 14.5%.
• A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies, supporting work-life balance.
• Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services.
• Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel.
• Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme.
• 34 Days Annual Leave plus 5 Public Holidays.

At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter.

We particularly welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+ and disabled people.

Closing date: 31 December 2026

Interview date: Mid January 2027 (TBC)

£38,784 to £42,254 per annum, Grade 6.