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- Tasks: Join a project tackling counterfeit medicines using innovative mass spectrometry techniques.
- Company: The University of Surrey is a leading global institution focused on transformative education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous pension, and access to campus leisure facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in public health while working in a diverse and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in chemistry and laboratory experience, especially in mass spectrometry, are essential.
- Other info: Interviews scheduled for July 4th; apply with your CV and cover letter.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision of what we want to achieve - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world, which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee. Our culture empowers people to achieve this aim and to collectively, and individually, make a real difference.
Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering to join a project focused on addressing the issue of counterfeiting in tablets. This project aims to understand how a novel mass spectrometry process can be used to screen tabletted medicines to protect the public from potentially harmful fake medicines. The successful candidate will join a diverse and impactful School in an internationally recognised University with a growing global reputation in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.
The ideal candidate will have a degree in chemistry and prior laboratory experience. They should be able to work safely in a chemistry laboratory, including writing risk assessments and COSHH documentation. Experience in mass spectrometry, particularly ambient ionisation mass spectrometry (preferably with an atmospheric solids analysis probe system), is essential. An understanding of numerical data analysis and scientific report writing will be advantageous.
This full-time position requires the post-holder to be present at the University’s Stag Hill campus for at least 4 days per week to conduct laboratory work.
Please send your CV and a one-page cover letter explaining:
- Your experience working safely in a chemistry laboratory
- Your background in mass spectrometry, especially ambient ionisation techniques
- Your motivation for joining this project
For informal inquiries, contact the Principal Investigator, Dr. Patrick Sears at p.sears@surrey.ac.uk. Interviews are scheduled for Friday, July 4th. For more information and to apply online, please download the detailed job description and click on the 'apply online' button above.
We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including a generous pension, relocation assistance if needed, flexible working options including job sharing and hybrid working, access to campus leisure facilities, travel schemes, and family-friendly benefits such as an on-site nursery. Learn more about the benefits we provide to support our staff.
The University of Surrey values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, including Black, Asian, minority ethnic individuals, and people with disabilities.
Research Assistant in Analytical Chemistry employer: University of Surrey
Contact Detail:
University of Surrey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Analytical Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in mass spectrometry, especially ambient ionisation techniques. This will not only enhance your understanding but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of the University of Surrey on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable for tailoring your approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past laboratory experiences that demonstrate your ability to work safely and effectively. Highlighting these instances can set you apart as a candidate who prioritises safety and compliance.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out to Dr. Patrick Sears for an informal chat about the project. This shows initiative and genuine interest, and it could give you an edge by allowing you to ask questions that may not be covered in the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Analytical Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your degree in chemistry and any relevant laboratory experience. Emphasise your skills in mass spectrometry, particularly ambient ionisation techniques, as this is essential for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your one-page cover letter, clearly explain your experience working safely in a chemistry laboratory. Discuss your background in mass spectrometry and express your motivation for joining the project focused on counterfeiting in tablets.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Mention your ability to write risk assessments and COSHH documentation in your application. Also, include any experience you have with numerical data analysis and scientific report writing, as these will be advantageous.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions carefully. Submit your CV and cover letter through the online application system provided by the University of Surrey, and double-check that all documents are included before submitting.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Surrey
✨Showcase Your Laboratory Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous laboratory work in detail. Highlight specific projects where you ensured safety protocols, wrote risk assessments, and handled chemicals responsibly. This will demonstrate your capability to work safely in a chemistry lab.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Mass Spectrometry
Since experience in mass spectrometry is essential, be ready to talk about your hands-on experience with this technique. If you've worked with ambient ionisation mass spectrometry or similar systems, share specific examples of how you applied this knowledge in your past roles.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry. Brush up on key concepts and be ready to explain how they relate to the project on counterfeiting in tablets. This shows your understanding of the field and your ability to contribute to the research.
✨Express Your Motivation Clearly
In your interview, convey why you are passionate about this project and the impact it can have on public health. Discuss your long-term career goals and how this position aligns with them, which will help the interviewers see your commitment to the role.
