At a Glance
- Tasks: Dive into groundbreaking research on polymer crystallisation and tackle real-world environmental challenges.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and a focus on your wellbeing.
- Other info: Collaborate with leading researchers in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in sustainable materials science while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or materials science with expertise in crystallisation processes.
The predicted salary is between 33800 - 43000 £ per year.
Environmental concerns have motivated the shift from traditional thermoplastic materials to bio-sourced, biodegradable or recyclable polymers such as Poly(lactide) (PLA). The polymer crystallisation process is critical not only to the manufacturing of thermoplastics in determining their physical properties, but also their mechanical recycling where degradation of properties is currently a major issue. Recent technical advances challenge our current theoretical understanding of the polymer crystallisation process, as more examples of discrepancies between experiment and theory are revealed.
We are looking for a postdoctoral research associate who will take on this challenge in a research project titled “Understanding the Role of Self-Poisoning in Polymer Crystallisation” funded by Leverhulme Trust. The aim is to develop a new understanding of polymer crystallisation, through both experimental and theoretical studies, to explain quantitatively the many phenomena that classical theories were unable to handle.
Together with other members of the Polymers and Liquid Crystals group, led by Dr. Xiangbing Zeng in the School of Chemical, Mathematical and Biological Engineering, you will be working on either the theoretical or experimental side (depending on your own expertise) of the project, to help us reach this aim. The research project will test our research hypothesis that crystallisation of polymers is always “poisoned”, that at the growth front there is always a competition between different chain fold lengths and, in most cases, different polymorphs. Unfortunately, most current polymer crystallisation theories fail to recognise the key role of “self‑poisoning”. As a result, they are unable to predict/explain the growing body of experimental evidence of its importance.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about science and a problem solver, with a PhD in the general field of physics and materials science. You should have a very good understanding of the nucleation and growth process of crystals, in polymers or other systems. If you are interested in the theoretical side of the project, previous working experience with analytical and numerical methods, Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamics Simulations are desirable. On the experimental side, working experience with microscopy and diffraction methods for structural characterisation is desired. Appreciation of both theoretical and experimental aspects of the project, and the ability to communicate with both theoreticians and experimentalists, are critical to the success of the project.
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 at sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits and join us to become part of something special.
£38,784 to £41,064 per annum
Research Associate in Self-Poisoning in Polymer Crystallisation employer: Economicsnetwork
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages innovation in research. As a Research Associate, you will benefit from a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to your professional development and wellbeing, all while contributing to groundbreaking research in polymer crystallisation within a supportive academic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Self-Poisoning in Polymer Crystallisation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in the Polymers and Liquid Crystals group. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into polymer crystallisation theories and recent advances. Show us that you're not just passionate about science but also up-to-date with the latest research. We love candidates who can discuss their ideas confidently!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your past work where you tackled challenges, especially in experimental or theoretical settings. We want to see how you approach complex issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the University of Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Self-Poisoning in Polymer Crystallisation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in polymer crystallisation and self-poisoning. We want to see how your background aligns with our project, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for science shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but genuinely excited about tackling the challenges in polymer crystallisation. Share any personal projects or experiences that fuelled your passion!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the University of Sheffield!
How to prepare for a job interview at Economicsnetwork
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of polymer crystallisation and the concept of self-poisoning. Be ready to discuss how your PhD work relates to the project and any relevant experience you have with analytical methods or simulations. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you understand the complexities involved.
✨Show Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for science shine through! Talk about why you’re excited about this research project and how it aligns with your career goals. Employers love candidates who are genuinely passionate about their field, so don’t hold back!
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the team dynamics, the specific challenges of the project, or how success is measured in this role. It shows that you’re engaged and thinking critically about how you can contribute.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires collaboration between theoreticians and experimentalists, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Being able to communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds will be key to your success in this position, so demonstrate that skill during your interview.
