Postdoctoral Research Associate in Solid-State Characterisation and Databases

Durham University; North East; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research-intensive university in the UK seeks an ambitious Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a major research project on Molecular Solid Solutions (MoSS). The role involves developing a database, studying MoSS using diffraction methods, and supervising a PhD student while engaging in collaborations and career development opportunities. A PhD in Physical Sciences and a background in X-ray diffraction are required.

Qualifications

• Established background in X-ray diffraction.
• Knowledge of databases and crystallisation methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop a database of MoSS.
• Study MoSS with various diffraction methods.
• Develop code to automate characterisation of MoSS.
• Supervise a PhD student.
• Engage in career development opportunities.

Skills

X-ray diffraction

Database management

Crystallisation

Education

PhD in Physical Sciences

Job description

The Role

Are you an ambitious researcher looking for your next challenge? Do you have an established background in X-ray diffraction and the use of databases? Do you want to further your career in one of the UK's leading research-intensive universities?

We are looking for an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a project led by Prof. Aurora J. Cruz-Cabeza and Prof. John Evans. The project is part of a new £7m EPSRC funded Programme Grant bringing together researchers from Durham, Leeds and Manchester to investigate the formation of Molecular Solid Solutions (MoSS).

About MoSS

Solid solutions are created when atoms or ions of a dopant are incorporated within the crystal structure of a host. Even at minute quantities, this can significantly alter the properties of crystals. Although solid solutions in metals and inorganic materials are well-studied, little is known about systems where the host and dopants are small organic molecules (MoSS). There is huge potential of utilising MoSS for changing and modulating materials properties, such as solubilities, crystal polymorph, crystal sizes and shapes and rates of dissolution.

Project Aims

The overall goal of the consortium is to develop and apply cutting-edge techniques in crystal synthesis, characterisation and modelling to study and generate a new understanding of MoSS. These advances will have applications across multiple sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and food industries.

Responsibilities

• Develop a database of MoSS.
• Study MoSS with various diffraction methods.
• Develop code to automate the characterisation of MoSS with diffraction and other methods.
• Involve in the supervision of a PhD student during the duration of the position.
• Take advantage of opportunities for career development and collaborations, including network events and research placements within the project.

Qualifications and Requirements

• PhD in Physical Sciences or a closely related field.
• Background in X-ray diffraction.
• Knowledge of databases, crystallisation and other characterisation methods for molecular crystals.