Research Associate

Kingston University; London; On-site; GBP 39,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in London is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher in Analytical Chemistry to work on the project 'FAST CBRN.' The role involves developing methodologies for pesticide analysis using chromatography-mass spectrometry, contributing to significant advancements in analytical science. Candidates should hold a PhD and have hands-on experience with chromatography and mass spectrometry. This full-time position offers a starting salary of £38,863 per annum and is fixed-term until September 2026.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with chromatography, preferably gas chromatography.
• Solid understanding of mass spectrometry and various mass analyzers.
• Enthusiasm for travel and presenting research.

Responsibilities

• Develop methodologies for analyzing pesticide mixtures using chromatography-mass spectrometry.
• Prepare research reports and publications in collaboration with colleagues.
• Conduct quantitative and qualitative analyses and data treatment.

Skills

Chromatography

Mass spectrometry

Statistical analysis

Data analysis

Education

PhD in Analytical Chemistry or related field

Tools

Gas chromatography

Liquid chromatography

Job description

As a postdoctoral researcher in Analytical Chemistry, you will work on the project "FAST CBRN," funded by DASA. The role involves developing methodologies for the analysis of pesticides in complex matrices using chromatography-mass spectrometry. This research is innovative and positioned at the forefront of analytical science, with significant implications for the broader analytical and forensic sectors, the defence industry, and society.

Activities include analyzing pesticide mixtures using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) in samples of varying complexity. Responsibilities involve preparing standards, developing methods, conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses, and data treatment. The work will mainly take place at Kingston University (Penrhyn Road campus), with a planned two-week research placement in another laboratory. The applicant should prepare for regular project meetings and be willing to travel occasionally for research or presentations.

The post holder will assist in preparing research reports and publications, collaborating with colleagues under the guidance of the research leader. Active participation in decision-making and contributing to the institution's strategic research positioning is expected.

You will apply your expertise in Analytical Chemistry to improve analytical approaches that protect citizens and advance the discipline, making a societal impact. Candidates should hold a PhD in Analytical Chemistry or a related field.

Essential qualifications and experience include hands-on experience with chromatography (preferably gas chromatography), a solid understanding of mass spectrometry, and familiarity with various mass analyzers. An interest in statistics and data analysis is advantageous. The ideal candidate should be enthusiastic about travel, presenting research, and writing reports and publications.

We seek an ambitious individual with a strong research interest, capable of meeting deadlines, enjoying academic reading and writing, being productive, overcoming challenges, working well in teams, and exceeding expectations.

School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry

Our focus areas include employability, practical skills, and life skills. We emphasize real-world applications in fields such as cancer biology, pharmacy, and nutrition, supported by modern laboratories and facilities, including biochemistry, biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, sport science, chemical analysis, pharmaceutics, forensic science, and pharmacy practice.

We are committed to inclusion and hold a School Athena SWAN silver award, actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion initiatives across the university.

This full-time, fixed-term position is available until 30 September 2026, with a starting salary of £38,863 per annum. Interviews are scheduled for Monday 15 September 2025. For informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Rosa Busquets, Associate Professor.