At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research on hydrogen generation using cutting-edge magnetic techniques.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Earth Sciences Department.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, and collaborative research environment.
- Other info: Full-time role with excellent career development opportunities until March 2029.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy solutions and food security.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience with laboratory experiments.
The predicted salary is between 42794 - 42794 £ per year.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Magnetic Monitoring of Stimulated Hydrogen Generation to join the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Oxford. You will work with Professor Claire Nichols and Professor Chris Ballentine as part of the Oxford Martin Programme on Geological Hydrogen, an interdisciplinary initiative investigating whether stimulated geological hydrogen can provide a low-cost, low-carbon and socially responsible route to fertiliser production and improved food and energy security.
You will work within a highly collaborative research environment, engaging with colleagues across Earth Sciences, Computer Science, Geography, Economics and the Saïd Business School, as well as external academic and industry partners. You will lead laboratory-based research to investigate the reaction pathways, mechanisms and kinetics of stimulated hydrogen generation in key geological settings. The role will focus on developing and applying high-sensitivity magnetic techniques to monitor hydrogen-generating water–rock reactions through coupled magnetite formation and consumption, alongside complementary mineralogical, geochemical and petrological analyses.
You will design and refine experimental protocols, analyse complex scientific datasets, and contribute to field-based magnetic monitoring activities in case-study regions. You will manage your own research programme, coordinate multiple aspects of the project to meet agreed deadlines, and contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations and project reports.
It is essential that you hold, or are close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Earth Sciences, Geochemistry, Geophysics, Environmental Geoscience, Mineral Physics, Physical Chemistry, Materials Science or a closely related discipline. You can have experience designing, conducting and interpreting laboratory experiments involving rocks, minerals, fluids, gases or water–rock reactions, together with a strong understanding of geological, geochemical or geophysical processes relevant to hydrogen generation and redox systems. Experience using specialist laboratory equipment and analysing quantitative scientific data is essential, along with excellent organisational and communication skills. Experience in magnetic measurements, mineral magnetism, reaction kinetics, thermodynamic modelling, hydrogen-related geological systems or complementary analytical techniques would be advantageous.
This position is offered full time on a fixed term contract until 31 March 2029. The deadline for applications is midday on 20 August 2026 and interviews are expected to take place in mid of September.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Magnetic Monitoring of Stimulated Hydrogen Generation in Oxford employer: European Geosciences Union
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and collaborative research environment that fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will have access to extensive resources and support for your professional development, alongside the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in sustainable hydrogen generation. With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on impactful research, working at Oxford not only enhances your career but also allows you to make meaningful contributions to global challenges.
Contact Details:
European Geosciences Union Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Magnetic Monitoring of Stimulated Hydrogen Generation in Oxford
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Magnetic Monitoring of Stimulated Hydrogen Generation in Oxford
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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 European Geosciences Union. 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 European Geosciences Union. 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 European Geosciences Union
✨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.
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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 European Geosciences Union. 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.
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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 European Geosciences Union to drive research projects forward.
