Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology - 0580-25

Lancaster University; Lancaster; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Lancaster is seeking a Senior Research Associate to lead in photochemical synthetic methodology, innovating sustainable catalytic methods for healthcare applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong publication record, proven problem-solving skills, and experience in a collaborative setting. This position offers generous holidays, development support, and a commitment to equality and diversity.

Benefits

Generous holiday leave

Pension scheme

Professional development support

Qualifications

• Evidence of problem-solving and innovation in previous projects.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative scientific environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and analyse photochemical and catalytic reactions.
• Optimise reaction conditions and perform structural characterisation.
• Design experiments to guide method development.
• Prepare manuscripts and present at conferences.
• Train and supervise junior researchers.

Skills

Strong publication record in synthetic organic chemistry

Experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques

Catalytic or photochemical methods

Spectroscopic characterisation

Project management and communication skills

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology - 0580-25, Lancaster

**Client:** Lancaster University

**Location:** Lancaster, United Kingdom

**Job Category:** Other

-

**EU work permit required:** Yes

Job Reference:

41b7ed27469f

Job Views:

8

Posted:

12.08.2025

Expiry Date:

26.09.2025

Job Description:

Reference: 0580-25

The Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University is seeking to appoint a full-time Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology to join the research group of Dr Jamie Docherty (DochertyLab.co.uk). This role is indefinite, subject to funding, currently available until 30.09.2028.

The project focuses on developing sustainable, light-driven catalytic methods for upgrading simple molecular feedstocks into stereochemically enriched structures for healthcare and materials applications. You will join a small, collaborative team, taking a leading role in reaction design, optimisation, and mechanistic investigation.

Main duties include:

• Planning, executing, and analysing photochemical and catalytic reactions.
• Optimising reaction conditions, scaling transformations, and performing structural characterisation (NMR, MS, chromatography, X-ray as needed).
• Designing mechanistic experiments to guide method development.
• Preparing manuscripts, presenting at conferences, and contributing to reports.
• Training and supervising junior researchers and maintaining photochemical equipment.

Candidate requirements:

• Strong publication record in synthetic organic chemistry, with evidence of problem-solving and innovation.
• Motivated, organised scientist who thrives in a collaborative environment.
• Experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques, catalytic or photochemical methods, and spectroscopic characterisation.
• Competent project management and communication skills, including record-keeping, timely results, and supervision.

Benefits:

• Generous holiday leave: 25 days plus university closure days and bank holidays.
• Access to pension scheme and flexible benefits.
• Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, supporting family-friendly and flexible policies.
• Support for professional development, with recognition through awards.

Further information about the Department is available at: