Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry

Unviersity of Liverpool - The Academy; Liverpool City Region; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance polymer synthesis and materials science. The role involves collaboration across departments, laboratory work, and contributing to publications. Candidates should have a PhD in polymer chemistry and capacities for innovative research leading to new material development. The position is fixed-term until May 2026, starting October 2025.

Qualifications

• A degree in Chemistry and a PhD in polymer chemistry.
• Ability to start on 6 October 2025 with relevant rights to work.
• The post will be fixed-term until 31 May 2026, with potential for extension.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory-based polymer synthesis and characterisation.
• Design new materials from molecular understanding.
• Collaborate across Departments for program efficiency.
• Support research dissemination through publications.
• Contribute to meetings with industrial collaborators.

Skills

Laboratory-based polymer synthesis

Collaboration with research groups

Publication contribution

Education

PhD in polymer chemistry

Job description

Overview

A short-term opportunity exists to join the research group of Professor Steve Rannard to undertake an innovative project that aims to adapt recent developments in polymer synthesis through to novel engineering materials.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher with specific expertise to join the team and rapidly lead the development of a strategically important area of applied research. Collaboration between Departments is important to the role which will be based in the Materials Innovation Factory.

The post will involve leading an iterative programme of applied polymer chemistry and materials science. For related previous research, see: https://rannardgroup.wixsite.com/rannard-group

Key responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory-based polymer synthesis and characterisation
• Design new materials from a molecular understanding of the impact on the physical properties of polymers within different environments
• Collaborate across the research group, Department of Chemistry, and other UoL Departments to ensure the programme maintains momentum and facilities are used efficiently
• Support the dissemination of research outputs including contributing to publications and conference attendance
• Contribute to meetings with industrial collaborators if required
• Engage with your own personal development opportunities

Qualifications

• A degree in Chemistry and a PhD in polymer chemistry
• All applicants must be able to start on 6 October 2025 with relevant Rights to Work
• The post is fixed term until 31 May 2026, with the potential for extension if funding is available
• For more information: Professor Steve Rannard, [e-mail]
• 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.

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.