At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to develop innovative synthesis methods for complex oxide materials.
- Company: The University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: 41+ days annual leave, flexible working, generous pension, and extensive retail discounts.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and personal development in a vibrant academic community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in materials chemistry or equivalent experience, with practical synthesis skills.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 44746 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work.
Our people are at the heart of everything we do.
Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.
We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.
Overview
We are seeking an ambitious and talented Research Associate with expertise in inorganic materials synthesis to join an exciting new interdisciplinary project.
The project aims to create a step-change in protein-templated synthesis.
You will work within a highly skilled, interdisciplinary team of researchers to develop synthesis methods for complex oxide materials.
You will contribute to the overall direction and success of the project, using your practical research skills alongside reporting and dissemination.
The role is based in the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering, and is part of an Advanced Research + Invention Agency-funded project, subject to contract negotiations.
Main duties and responsibilities
This role will use protein-mediated synthesis methods to control and direct crystallisation of functional oxide materials, with a focus on generalised methods which control size and shape.
This will be supported by a full suite of standard characterisation techniques to understand the chemical, physical and functional properties of the materials made, and work closely with the sintering aspect of the work.
Other parts of the project will provide advanced characterisation and modelling to boost the mechanistic understanding of our systems.
- Assist with relevant research as directed by the project aims, in conjunction with other project team members, with a focus on synthesis development
- Perform associated sample characterisation and analysis as directed by the project.
- Keep a detailed and accurate log book of all work
- Work independently and as a team to meet project objectives
- Follow mandatory Health & Safety policies and procedures including Co SHH, and standard operating procedures, using appropriate communication mechanisms
- Liaise with the academic principal investigator with overall responsibility for the project, as well as other academic co-investigators and collaborators.
- Prepare reports for group meetings, including presentation of results to others within the project group.
- Carry out strategic planning over the duration of the project in conjunction with other project members, to achieve the milestones established in the project plan; this involves planning and scheduling of experimental work and resource requirements for the project.
- Read academic papers, journals, books and professional literature to understand the context of the project to the wider literature.
- Disseminate research findings to project staff and other stakeholders.
This includes preparing written project reports, giving presentations at project meetings and conference presentations and preparing research findings for reports and manuscripts.
- As a member of staff, you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all.
We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected.
Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply.
- Job Criteria
- A good honours degree in a relevant subject - Essential (Application)
- Ph D in materials chemistry or similar (or equivalent relevant experience) - Essential (Application)
- Practical experience of synthesis development - Essential (Application)
- Experience of template-mediated synthesis - Desirable (Application/interview)
- Practical experience of standard materials characterisation techniques including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy; FTIR etc - Essential (Application/interview)
- Experience using superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry for magnetic materials - Desirable (Application/interview)
- Ability to initiate, plan, organise, implement and deliver programmes of work to tight deadlines. - Essential (Application/interview)
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills - Essential (Application/interview)
- Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Office packages - Essential (Application/interview)
- Ability work independently and as part of a team - Essential (Application/interview)
- Further Information
- Grade: 7
- Work arrangement: Full-time
- Duration: End date 29th Feb 2028, with the possibility to extend to 31st Aug 2029 subject to review
- Line manager: Project Lead
- Direct reports: N/A
- Right to work in the UK: If you do not currently hold the right to work in the UK, you can find more information here to help determine your visa eligibility.
Additional guidance is also available on the UK Visa & Immigration website.
- Our website: https://sheffield. ac. uk/cmbe
- For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Rebecca Boston, Project Lead: on r. boston@sheffield. ac. uk or on 0114 222 5496
- Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place mid-August.
This will consist of an interview.
We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage two weeks after the closing date.
If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact cmbe-staffing-contracts@sheffield. ac. uk.
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield. ac. uk/vision (opens in new window).
What we offer
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes.
- A range of generous family-friendly policies
- paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- access to menopause support in the workplace
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield. ac. uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).
We are a Disability Confident Leader
We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window).
If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence.
Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society.
We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience.
Our University Vision ( www. sheffield. ac. uk/vision ) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
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Research Associate in Oxide Materials Synthesis in Sheffield employer: Diversity Dashboard
Diversity Dashboard is an exceptional employer that prioritises inclusivity and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about tackling inequality and poverty. With a flexible working environment in the vibrant city of Edinburgh, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their role while making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Oxide Materials Synthesis in Sheffield
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Oxide Materials Synthesis in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Diversity Dashboard. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Diversity Dashboard. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Diversity Dashboard. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
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In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Diversity Dashboard to drive research projects forward.
