Post-Doctoral Research Fellow - AR3337

University of St Andrews; St Andrews; Hybrid; GBP 39,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation support

USS Pension (14.5%)

Hybrid working

Staff discount

Staff parking

Carshare

Cycle to Work

LinkedIn Learning access

Salary sacrifice

Annual leave

Job summary

The University of St Andrews is seeking a Post-doctoral Research Fellow to work on a project entitled “Helical Out-of-Equilibrium Systems: Exploring Light-Induced Structural Distortions.” The role focuses on photoswitchable structures for energy storage, with potential applications in photopharmacology. Start date is 1 November 2026, for a 12-month fixed term.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in Chemistry or be nearing completion, with expertise in photoswitches and related synthetic

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or near completion.
• Expertise in photoswitches, organic synthesis and photopharmacology.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in photoswitchable structures with applications in energy storage and potentially photopharmacology.
• Assist with managing a recently established independent research group.
• Supervise project students and contribute to manuscript preparation.

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Job description

Hours: 36.25 hours per week, Full Time Start Date: 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter Duration: Fixed Term for 1 Year Applications are sought for a committed Post-doctoral Research Fellow to work with Dr Jake Greenfield conducting research for a project entitled "Helical Out-of-Equilibrium Systems: Exploring Light-Induced Structural Distortions". The primary duties will be to conduct research in the area of photoswitchable structures, with applications in energy storage (and potentially photopharmacology), assist with managing of a recently established independent research group, supervise project students and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts. The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Chemistry with expertise in photoswitches, organic synthesis, and photopharmacology. The post is available for 12 months starting 01/11/2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. St Andrews offers more than just a place to work-it is a place to belong. We value collegiality, inclusion, and wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a workplace where staff can thrive and perform at their best. 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. The package for the Post-Doctoral Research Fellow role includes:

• 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.

The successful candidate will have to demonstrate their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment and where required, the University can support with visa sponsorship. Closing Date: 30 September 2026 Interview Date: To be confirmed Please Quote Ref: AR3337CM Job Description: AR3337CM FPs.pdf £38,784 to £46,049 per annum Grade 6