Research Associate in Computational Chemistry

Overview

Research Associate in Computational Chemistry – Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd. Position to work on the UK-based centre for UK-wide carbon capture and sustainable chemistry platform, funded by EPSRC and NERC, with collaboration across 10 leading UK universities and 30+ industry partners. Cardiff researchers will contribute expertise in atomic/molecular modeling and computational methods for catalysis, sustainable chemical processes, and integrated systems, to translate lab innovations to pilot-scale deployment.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties

• Conduct research in Computational Chemistry and contribute to the overall research performance of the School and University by delivering measurable outputs (funding proposals, publications in national/international journals, and supervision/recruitment of postgraduate researchers).
• Develop research objectives and proposals, including potential funding applications.
• Attend and/or present at local and national conferences and seminars as required.
• Undertake project-related administrative tasks, including project planning, organisation, and implementation of procedures to ensure accurate and timely reporting.
• Prepare ethical and governance documentation for research as required.
• Review and synthesize current literature in the field.
• Participate in School-wide research activities and build internal and external networks to influence future research directions and share ideas for project collaboration.

Other Expectations

• Engage effectively with industry, commercial, public sector, professional bodies, and other academic organizations regionally and nationally to raise the School’s profile and foster strategic collaborations.
• Engage in personal and professional development to enhance performance.
• Participate in School governance and activities to promote the School and its work beyond the University.
• Other duties as required and reasonable within the role.

Qualifications and Education

• PhD-level postgraduate degree (or near completion/submission) in catalysis, computational chemistry, or related industrial experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Established and proven research portfolio and/or relevant industrial experience in:
  i. Multiscale modelling;
  ii. Heterogeneous catalysis;
  iii. Experience working in large collaborative programs.
• Knowledge of current research status in a specialized field.
• Proven ability to publish in international journals and present at national/international conferences.
• Proven ability to secure competitive research funding or understanding of how to develop proposals for funding bodies.

Communication and Teamwork

• Proven ability to communicate effectively and persuasively.
• Ability to supervise others to focus team efforts and motivate individuals.

General Attributes

• Proven creativity, innovation, and collaboration within research work.
• Ability to work with limited supervision.

Desirable Criteria

• Relevant professional qualifications where applicable.
• Evidence of collaboration with industry.
• Adaptability to evolving higher education community needs.
• Evidence of ability to engage in internal and external networks to enhance School research activities.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industry: Higher Education

Salary: £41,064 – £46,049 per year (Grade 6). This position is full-time (35 hours/week) and is available from 1 January 2026 for 3.5 years.

Important note: The University policy uses the person specification to inform shortlisting. Applicants should demonstrate evidence of meeting ALL essential criteria and, where relevant, the desirable ones. Please provide evidence via a supporting statement aligned to the criteria. Applications will be considered on the information provided under each element.

Closing date: 8 October 2025.
Advert date: 10 September 2025.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Cardiff University is committed to equality and inclusive practices. We welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, age, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or other status. We consider flexible working arrangements where possible.

Other information: Cardiff University is a signatory of the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA). More information at Responsible research assessment – Research – Cardiff University.

Note: Some content in the original listing related to other positions or job postings has been removed to improve clarity and focus on the Research Associate role.