Research Fellow - School of Chemistry - 105878 - Grade 7

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Birmingham seeks a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the School of Chemistry's synthetic supramolecular chemistry group. This exciting role focuses on designing and synthesising robust organic capsules, contributing to leading-edge research in the field. The position offers opportunities for international travel and professional growth within a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications

• First degree in chemistry or related area, higher degree (PhD) relevant to research area.
• Research focus in synthesis, particularly organic chemistry.
• Experience in catalysis/organocatalysis is preferable.

Responsibilities

• Undertake research into organic molecular capsules and related systems.
• Design, synthesise, characterise, and analyse catalytic properties.
• Produce reports, attend meetings, and write papers for publication.

Skills

High level analytical capability

NMR spectroscopy

Mass spectrometry

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD in chemistry or related area

Job description

Job Description

Position Details

School of Chemistry

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to July 2028

Closing date: 6th July 2025

UK and International travel may be required for this role.

Background

To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on the synthesis and study of molecular capsules within the synthetic supramolecular chemistry group of Dr Jamie Lewis in the School of Chemistry. The primary aim of the project will be the design and synthesis of robust organic capsules and examining their ability to catalyse reactions within their internal cavities.

Role Summary

• To undertake research into organic molecular capsules and related systems under the supervision of Dr Jamie Lewis.
• To design, synthesise, characterise and test the catalytic properties of molecular capsules and related systems.
• To produce regular reports pertaining to the project as requested; attend regular project meetings; give regular presentations to the group; write papers for publication in peer reviewed scientific journals.
• To play an active role in the Lewis Group, participating in all group meetings and activities. You may help to supervise research students, be responsible for maintenance of equipment and training of personnel on equipment.

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.

• Perform research and collect data in the specified area to a high level of competency and quality.
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results generated from all aspects of the project.
• Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to support staff and students in the group.
• Disseminate research through conferences, departmental seminars, outreach activities, etc.
• Contribute to writing scientific papers.
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required.
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration.
• Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding.
• Promote equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines.
• Contribute to developing new ideas, directions, techniques and methods in order to advance the project and enhance its quality.
• Maintain a high level of knowledge of the immediate and surrounding literature.

Person Specification

• First degree in chemistry, or related area, and normally, a higher degree (PhD) relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications.
• Research profile in the area of synthesis, preferably with a significant proportion in organic chemistry.
• An interest in catalysis/organocatalysis.
• High level analytical capability and experience in use of NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry for the characterisation and structure elucidation of small molecules.
• Ability to keep up to date with new developments in the fields relevant to the project.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team on research programmes.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary project area of research.
• Ability to initiate, plan, organise, implement and deliver programmes of research work to tight deadlines.
• Ability to write and give presentations to both national and international audience standard and communicate complex information clearly.
• Excellent writing skills and record of success in published papers and/or conference presentations.

Informal enquiries to James Lewis, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.