Research Associate

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA), to study the synthesis of dinuclear metal complexes as structural and spectroscopic models for metalloenzymes relevant to carbon dioxide (CO2) activation and reductive coupling.
The successful candidate will provide high level research skills through personal expertise and contribution to the wider research team of Dr Sandy Kilpatrick in an EPSRC-funded research project “Multimetallic CO2 Reduction Catalysts as Artificial Cofactors”. They will be expected to work on their own project (relating to the synthesis of novel ligand architectures and first-row transition metal complexes thereof) while also undertaking co-supervision of undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD students on synthetic organometallic chemistry-based projects. They will be expected to take a leading role in the research group, including laboratory management, organising group meetings, preparing research papers for publication, and presenting findings at international conferences.
This post is part of a multidisciplinary project which aims to design, develop, and study synthetic cofactors inspired by CO2 reducing metalloenzymes. The project initiates a new international collaboration between researchers in synthetic organometallic chemistry and academic groups working in the areas of computational, bio-inorganic chemistry and biocatalysis. It is expected that the PDRA will spend up to 2 weeks visiting collaborators laboratories (in Ireland and Germany) during the 12-month position. 

About you
They will be a talented synthetic chemist with a demonstrated track record in anaerobic synthesis (i.e. Schlenk line and glovebox techniques), spectroscopic characterisation, and reactivity of organometallic and coordination compounds, though a wide range of scientific experiences will be considered. This should be reflected in a PhD qualification (or soon to be awarded a PhD) in coordination chemistry, organometallic chemistry, or a closely related subject, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. The ideal candidate will also have experience in homogeneous catalysis, bio-inorganic chemistry, and/or physical characterisation techniques (e.g. CV, EPR, XRD). Self-motivation, excellent organization skills, and the ability to work well as part of a diverse team are essential.
Additional information

Informal e-mail enquiries prior to make an application are welcome and should be addressed to Dr Sandy Kilpatrick ([email protected] ).
Applications for job share will be considered.
As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found here .
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