Research Associate
Physical and Environmental Sciences,Chemistry
Short info about job
Company: University of Sheffield
Department: Department of Chemistry
Salary: £30,688 per annum (Grade 7)
Hours: Full Time
Contract type: Fixed-Term/Contract
Type / Role: Academic or Research
Phone: +44-1285 9931060
Fax: +44-1538 6053710
E-mail: N\A
Site: N\A
Detail information about job Research Associate. Terms and conditions vacancy
Fixed-term for 16 months.
Are you interested in working for a world top 100 University? We are seeking an enthusiastic, skilled chemist to undertake an EPSRC-funded interdisciplinary project in energy feasibility research. The project is in the area of photo- and electrocatalysis with Earth-abundant metals as a replacement for currently used Nobel metal-based catalysts.
The key question to answer is whether it is possible to photoactivate Mn complexes which so far have been used only as electrocatalysts. The areas of photochemistry, electrochemistry, and catalysis are actively pursued in the collaborating Departments of Chemistry, Physics & Astronomy, and Chemical & Biological Engineering.
The project involves synthesis of transition metal carbonyl complexes, especially those of re and Mn, and their characterisation with regard to photo- and electrocatalysis. A particular emphasis will be placed on preparing compounds with anchoring groups, such as carboxylate or phosphonate, for attachment to semiconductor electrodes. Good synthetic skills in organic and organometallic chemistry, knowledge of electro- and photochemistry, and interest is renewable energy approaches and catalysis are essential. The prior knowledge of spectroelectrochemistry is an advantage.
You will be part of an active, interdisciplinary research team which involves chemists, physicists, and engineers. The project will enable you to become part of research community in photo- and electrocatalysis, with links to industry.
You will have a PhD in chemistry, or a completed programme of PhD awaiting award (or equivalent experience) and experience in organometallic synthesis. You will have knowledge and experience in electrochemistry and photochemistry in solution and the ability to communicate with other researchers from other disciplines.
We’re one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.
We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching, and student experience.
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