Research Fellow in Synthetic Supramolecular Chemistry

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Birmingham invites applications for a 6-month PDRA position in the Pike group to work on responsive foldamers for sensing. Starting Dec 2026, with flexible start date. The role involves running synthetic organic chemistry experiments, data analysis, publication of findings, and supervising students under a mentor.

Candidates should hold a Chemistry degree and a PhD in synthetic chemistry, with emphasis on luminescence studies and quantum yields. Informal enquiries to Dr Sarah Pike.

Qualifications

• First degree in Chemistry and PhD in synthetic chemistry.
• Desirable: analytical chemistry experience (e.g. titration experiments).
• Must demonstrate ability to communicate complex information clearly.

Responsibilities

• Develop research objectives and proposals with mentor support.
• Analyse and interpret data from experiments.
• Run synthetic organic chemistry experiments in the lab.
• Disseminate findings via publications and seminars.
• Supervise students and guide PhD researchers.
• Manage research-related administration and activities.
• Engage in public outreach and contribute to departmental planning.
• Coordinate work with others to avoid conflicts.

Skills

Luminescence studies

Analytical skills

Clear communication

Research methods

Resource planning

Education

PhD in synthetic chemistry

First degree in Chemistry

Job description

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,636 to £46.049, with potential progression once in post to £48,822.

Description of the Group:

We are synthetic supramolecular chemistry group at the University of Birmingham. Details about the research group can be found Home | Pike Research Group

There is a 6-month PDRA position available within the Pike group to work on responsive foldamers for sensing. The position will be available from Dec 2026 but there is some flexibility with the start date.

Main Duties / Responsibilities

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required.
• Analyse and interpret data.
• Running synthetic organic chemistry experiments in a laboratory setting.
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc.
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students.
• Undertake management/administration arising from research.
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration.
• Contribute to public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University.
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods.
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters.
• Provide guidance to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research.
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
• Promotes equality and values diversity and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• Hold a first degree in Chemistry and PhD in synthetic chemistry
• Experience of the following is desirable:
  • analytical chemistry e.g. titration experiments
• Experience/demonstration of the following are essential:
  • Knowledge of executing luminescence studies and calculating quantum yields
  • High level analytical capability
  • Ability to communicate complex information clearly
  • Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods
  • Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
  • Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
  • Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or project
  • Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
  • Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Sarah Pike ([e-mail]).

Valuing excellence, sustaining investmentWe value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

£36,636 to £46,049. Grade 7