Postdoctoral Research Associate in Probe Microscopy of 2D Nanomaterials

TN United Kingdom; London; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 51,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a dynamic research team focused on the innovative field of 2D nanomaterials. This role involves cutting-edge research utilizing probe microscopy techniques to explore and characterize advanced materials. The successful candidate will contribute to a collaborative environment, guiding students while also engaging in significant research activities at multiple locations. With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience and multidisciplinary collaboration, this position promises to be both challenging and rewarding, offering a unique opportunity to advance in the field of nanotechnology.

Benefits

41 days holiday

Defined benefit pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

On-site gym

Enhanced parental leave

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with probe microscopy of 2D materials is essential.
• Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize samples and undertake PiFM measurements and analysis.
• Supervise and train group members, ensuring lab safety.

Skills

Probe Microscopy (AFM, STM, TERS)

Mechanical Exfoliation

Raman Spectroscopy

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS)

Team Collaboration

Written Communication

Verbal Communication

Education

PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Materials Science

PhD in Condensed Matter Physics

Tools

Photoinduced Force Microscopy (PiFM)

AFM

STM

TERS

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Probe Microscopy of 2D Nanomaterials, London

About the role

Applications are invited for a PDRA to work in the group of Adam Clancy in the Department of Chemistry at University College London. The research involves exfoliating and characterising 2D materials and quasi-1D nanoribbons using photoinduced force microscopy (PiFM). The postholder will synthesise samples, undertake PiFM measurements and analysis, as well as supplement with classic nanomaterials characterisation approaches (Raman, TEM, XPS). The appointee will play a leading role in the research team, including supervising and training existing group members (PhD and Masters students) and monitoring lab safety.

The appointee will be primarily based at UCL where the candidate will join Adam Clancy’s research team in the Department of Chemistry at the Bloomsbury Campus. Approximately one-third of the project time will be spent at Cardiff University undertaking PiFM measurements, with travel and accommodation provided. There, they will work closely with Prof Phil Davies' group in the School of Chemistry.

Appointment at Grade 7 (£44,000 - £51,000 pa including London Allowance) is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD. If the candidate has not yet been awarded a PhD, the appointment will be at Research Assistant UCL Grade 6B (£38,000 - £41,000 pa including London Allowance), with the Grade 7 salary backdated upon PhD award.

About you

The successful candidate will have a PhD (or be near completion) in Chemistry, Materials, Condensed Matter Physics, or a related discipline. Hands-on experience with probe microscopy (AFM, STM, TERS, or similar) of 2D materials is essential, ideally with experience in mechanical exfoliation of layered crystals for AFM samples. The candidate should be able to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team and possess strong written and verbal communication skills in English. Since approximately one-third of the project time will be spent at Cardiff University, willingness to travel and stay there is required.

A full job description and person specification are available at the bottom of the application page. To apply, please upload a 1-page cover letter, a 2-page CV, and a publications list. Applications are accepted online, but note that the advert may close early if a high volume of applications is received.

What we offer

We offer a range of benefits, including:

• 41 days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay