Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct theoretical and computational studies on photochemical reactions in various environments.
- Company: Join the University of Bristol's School of Chemistry, a leader in innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy an inclusive work environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking research impacting plant biology and atmospheric chemistry.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry or Physics with experience in theoretical research preferred.
- Other info: Open-ended contract with funding until August 2027; diverse and inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 38249 - 44128 £ per year.
The role
A research position in computational and theoretical photochemistry is available in the School of Chemistry at the University of Bristol, supported by the EPSRC Grant EP/V026690/1, Ultrafast Photochemical Dynamics in Complex Environments. The project is a collaboration between Prof Andrew Orr-Ewing FRS and Dr Tom Oliver (University of Bristol), Prof Helen Fielding and Prof Graham Worth (UCL), Prof Mark Brouard and Prof Claire Vallance (University of Oxford), Prof Jon Marangos (Imperial College), and Dr Basile Curchod (University of Bristol).
The objectives of the research are: (i) to deepen our understanding of the response of molecular chromophores to absorption of light, and the effects of interactions between the chromophores and their surroundings, on ultrafast timescales; (ii) to apply this new understanding to reveal the fundamental mechanisms of light-activated processes in plant biology and atmospheric chemistry.
Further details of the In Silico Photochemistry Group can be found at www.in-silico-photochem.com
What will you be doing?
The postdoctoral researcher will be based in the School of Chemistry at the University of Bristol where they will undertake theoretical and computational studies of the mechanisms of photochemical reactions of organic molecules in solution or protein environments on ultrafast timescales. The key techniques to be employed will involve nonadiabatic molecular dynamics in gas phase and complex environment, using methods recently developed by the ISPG group, as well as high-level electronic structure methods. There will also be opportunities to develop new strategies to describe chromophores in complex environment and simulate experimental observables.
You should apply if
The position would best suit a talented and motivated early career researcher with a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry or Physics and experience in theoretical research using nonadiabatic dynamics in complex environment or working towards one. Some or all of the following skills and experience would be an advantage: experience in theoretical/computational photochemistry, and use of electronic structure methods for studying excited electronic states.; experience in using nonadiabatic molecular dynamics, and strategies to include the effect of an environment in excited-state simulations; experience with coding and scripting for data analysis; ability to communicate complex information clearly and accurately in English, both in written and oral forms; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Additional information
Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 31/08/2027
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 10/07/2025
For informal queries, please contact: Prof Basile Curchod, basile.curchod@bristol.ac.uk
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched ourstrategyto 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.
The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in aninclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential.We wantto attract, develop, and retain individualswith different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people – because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.
£38,249 to £44,128 per annum, Grade: I/Pathway 2
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Associate in Silico Photochemistry Group employer: Chemistry Guide
Contact Detail:
Chemistry Guide Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Silico Photochemistry Group
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in nonadiabatic molecular dynamics and photochemistry. This will not only help you understand the current landscape but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former members of the In Silico Photochemistry Group through professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the team culture and expectations, which can be invaluable for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your coding and scripting experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used these skills in past projects, as this is a key requirement for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to communicate complex information clearly. Practice explaining your research or relevant concepts in simple terms, as this skill is crucial for collaboration within the team and for presenting findings.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Silico Photochemistry Group
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Research Associate position. Highlight key skills such as experience in theoretical research and nonadiabatic dynamics.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in physical chemistry or physics, particularly focusing on any work related to computational photochemistry and nonadiabatic molecular dynamics.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that connects your background and skills to the objectives of the In Silico Photochemistry Group. Emphasise your ability to communicate complex information and your experience working both independently and in teams.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for clarity and accuracy. Ensure that your English is clear and professional, as effective communication is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chemistry Guide
✨Understand the Research Focus
Familiarise yourself with the specific research objectives of the In Silico Photochemistry Group. Be prepared to discuss how your background in physical chemistry or physics aligns with their goals, particularly regarding ultrafast photochemical dynamics.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Highlight your experience with nonadiabatic molecular dynamics and electronic structure methods. Be ready to provide examples of past projects where you applied these techniques, as well as any coding or scripting skills relevant to data analysis.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires clear communication of complex information, practice explaining your research and technical concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to convey ideas effectively, both in written and oral forms.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
Prepare to discuss your experiences working both independently and as part of a team. Provide examples that showcase your ability to collaborate with others while also being self-motivated and capable of managing your own research.
