Postdoctoral Research Associate in Plasma Catalysis – Grade 7

University of Liverpool; West Kirby; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Liverpool is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to work on adaptive plasma catalysis for sustainable conversion of CO2, CH4 and other feedstocks into fuels and chemicals. The role involves designing plasma-catalytic reactors, synthesising and characterising catalysts, and studying plasma–catalyst interactions with in situ/operando techniques.

The School of Engineering, an Athena Swan Silver award holder, supports flexible working and inclusive recruitment.

Qualifications

• Postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in a related field is required.
• Experience in plasma catalysis, reactor design, catalyst synthesis and advanced characterization.
• Ability to publish high-quality research and present at conferences.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and optimise plasma-catalytic reactors.
• Synthesis and characterisation of catalysts for plasma catalysis.
• Investigate plasma–catalyst interactions and reaction mechanisms.
• Publish results and contribute to knowledge exchange activities.

Skills

Plasma catalysis

Catalyst synthesis

In situ/operando characterization

Education

PhD in a related field (Chemical Engineering/Materials Science/Plasma chemistry)

Job description

Hours of work: Full-time

Tenure: Fixed term for 12 months

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join our research team in the interdisciplinary field of plasma catalysis. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to pioneering research on adaptive plasma catalysis for the sustainable conversion of CO2, CH4 and other feedstocks into valuable fuels and chemicals. You will be involved in the design, development and optimisation of plasma-catalytic reactors, catalyst synthesis and characterisation, and the investigation of plasma-catalyst interactions and reaction mechanisms. Particular emphasis will be placed on understanding catalyst dynamics, surface reaction pathways and the underlying mechanisms of plasma catalysis, supported by advanced in situ/operando characterisation techniques. You will work closely with internal team members and international collaborators and contribute to high-quality publications, conference presentations and knowledge exchange activities.

The School of Engineering is an Athena Swan Silver award holder and is committed to encouraging, developing and supporting individuals in their research and academic careers. A dynamic, diverse and inclusive working environment must be an integral part of our society, giving everyone the opportunity to participate and to benefit. Thus, we welcome applications from all sectors of the community. We recognise that many individuals value flexibility in their work/life balance and we will consider applications to work on a part-time, flexible and job share basis wherever possible (a minimum of 0.5 FTE). As part of our commitments to increase diversity and inclusivity within our school, we particularly welcome applications from women, people who identify as an ethnic minority, people with disabilities and people from LGBTQ+ communities, as they are currently under-represented in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics.

If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Closing Date: 24 November 2026 23:30