At a Glance
- Tasks: Validate AI-predicted ceramics and glasses for innovative applications in telecommunications.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's cutting-edge Ceramic and Glass group.
- Benefits: 41+ days annual leave, flexible working, generous pension, and discounts.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal development and recognition.
- Why this job: Be part of a €6 million project shaping the future of materials discovery.
- Qualifications: PhD in chemistry, physics, materials science or electrical engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 41064 € per year.
An exciting opportunity exists within the Ceramic and Glass group at the University of Sheffield. The post holder will work on validating AI‑predicted functional ceramics and glass compositions for applications as lead‑free piezoelectrics, high‑energy‑density ceramics and low‑network‑modifier glass compositions for packaging applications in telecommunications. The candidate will be part of a €6 million Horizon Europe project (Simulingua) aimed at developing and validating next‑generation AI‑powered materials discovery tools. As the research associate, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day running of the project, reporting to Profs Ian M. Reaney (lead), Derek C. Sinclair and Russell Hand. The successful applicant will collate UoS data for the consortium and produce the first draft of papers for high‑impact‑factor journals. Experimental methods will include fabrication of dielectric ceramics and glasses, electrical characterisation using impedance spectroscopy, P‑E loops and MW measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‑ray diffraction.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- Plan work effectively, including resource availability, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims, and report to line manager(s) regularly.
- Fabricate and characterise ceramics and glass predicted by AI‑based materials discovery.
- Carry out laboratory experiments such as X‑ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.
- Liaise, coordinate and collaborate with Simulingua consortium members.
- Generate regular project update reports and presentations, delivering them at technical review meetings, seminars and conferences.
- Prioritise activities to achieve objectives agreed with supervisors and project sponsors.
- Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of relevant literature.
- Abide by the required health and safety culture and regulations expected within the UoS and its associated laboratories.
- Guide and support UG and PG project students in their laboratory work as required.
- Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification:
- Essential: Have a good honours degree (or equivalent experience) in chemistry, physics, materials science or electrical engineering and a PhD (or close to completion) in the same fields.
- Desirable: Knowledge of advanced characterisation of functional ceramics and glasses.
- Essential: Experience in inorganic chemistry and/or ceramics, materials science and defect/crystal chemistry of oxides.
- Essential: Knowledge and experience to support delivery of the project aims, such as solid‑state characterisation methods (X‑ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermal/chemical analysis) and electrical testing (impedance spectroscopy, LCR, current‑voltage behaviour in capacitors, piezoelectrics).
- Desirable: Experience of managing and leading projects covering multiple aspects and stakeholders (e.g. academic & industry).
- Essential: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
- Essential: Commitment to health and safety, good understanding of industry health and safety procedures including experience carrying out and documenting risk assessments and COSHH assessments.
- Desirable: Ability to provide guidance and support to research and project students.
Benefits:
- 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.
- Wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- Variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g. Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond.
- Commitment to development: access to learning and mentoring schemes integrated with Academic Career Pathways.
- 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.
Further Information:
- Grade: 7
- Salary: £38,784 – £41,064 per annum
- Work arrangement: Full‑time
- Duration: Fixed‑term for 2 years
- Line manager: Sheffield project lead
We are a Disability Confident Leader.
Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery in Sheffield employer: Diversity Dashboard
The University of Sheffield offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Associate role, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration within the Ceramic and Glass group. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to professional development, including access to mentoring and learning opportunities. With a focus on employee well-being and a variety of staff networks, the university creates a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and meaningful contributions to cutting-edge research projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Sheffield, especially those in the Ceramic and Glass group. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the team culture and what they really value in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of AI-based materials discovery. We should be ready to discuss how our skills in ceramics and glasses can contribute to the project. Show them we’re not just a good fit, but the perfect match!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help us articulate our experiences and skills confidently, especially when it comes to discussing technical aspects like impedance spectroscopy or X-ray diffraction.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email expressing our enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Let’s remind them why we’re the best choice for this exciting opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your background in chemistry, materials science, or electrical engineering, and any relevant project management experience. We want to see how you fit into our exciting research environment!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about AI-based materials discovery and how your expertise aligns with our goals at StudySmarter. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Research Experience:Since this role involves a lot of hands-on research, be sure to detail your previous lab work and any specific techniques you've mastered, like X-ray diffraction or impedance spectroscopy. We’re keen to know how your past experiences will contribute to our projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of functional ceramics and glasses, especially in relation to AI-based materials discovery. Familiarise yourself with the latest research and methodologies, particularly those mentioned in the job description like X-ray diffraction and impedance spectroscopy.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous projects and how they relate to the role. Highlight any experience you have with managing projects or collaborating with multiple stakeholders, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions during the interview. Prepare to explain your understanding of solid-state characterisation methods and electrical testing. Practising how to articulate complex concepts clearly will help you stand out.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since effective communication is key for this role, practice your presentation skills. Be prepared to discuss how you would generate project update reports and deliver presentations at technical meetings. This will show that you can convey information clearly and confidently.
