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- Tasks: Lead innovative research in photochemical synthetic methodology and optimise cutting-edge reactions.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a hub for groundbreaking research and a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team making impactful contributions to healthcare and materials science.
- Qualifications: Strong publication record in synthetic organic chemistry and experience with advanced analytical techniques required.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and a chance to work on a UKRI-funded project.
The predicted salary is between 39355 - 45413 £ per year.
Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology – 0580-25
Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology – 0580-25 role at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology – 0580-25
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Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology – 0580-25 role at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
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Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology
Chemistry
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: £39,355 to £45,413 (Full time, indefinite with end date)
Closing Date: Wednesday 27 August 2025
Interview Date: Tuesday 09 September 2025
Reference: 0580-25
The Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University is seeking to appoint a full-time Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology to join the research group of Dr Jamie Docherty (DochertyLab.co.uk). This role is indefinite, however subject to funding, which is currently only available to a maximum date of 30.09.2028.
The project you will be working on is a new UKRI-funded project that aims to develop sustainable, light-driven catalytic methods for upgrading simple molecular feedstocks into stereochemically enriched structures with high value for healthcare and materials applications. You will join a small, collaborative team and take a leading role in reaction design, optimisation, and mechanistic investigation.
The Main Duties Of The Role Involve
- Planning, executing and analysing cutting-edge photochemical and catalytic reactions.
- Optimising reaction conditions, scaling promising transformations and performing full structural characterisation (NMR, MS, chiral/achiral chromatography, X-ray as needed).
- Designing and running mechanistic experiments to guide method development.
- Preparing manuscripts, presenting at conferences and contributing to project reporting.
- Training and supervising junior researchers and maintaining specialist photochemical equipment.
You Will
- Be able to demonstrate a strong publication record in synthetic organic chemistry, with clear evidence of independent problem-solving and innovation.
- Be a highly motivated, organised scientist who thrives in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
- Have experience of air-/moisture-sensitive techniques, catalytic or photochemical method development, and advanced spectroscopic/analytical characterisation.
- Be able to demonstrate competent project management and communication skills, including meticulous record-keeping, timely delivery of results and effective supervision of students.
The Benefits Of The Role
- Generous holiday leave – 25 days (pro-rata) annual leave plus University closure days and bank holidays.
- Access to employee pension scheme, and annual flexible benefits scheme.
- We are committed to promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across the Faculty, and supporting family-friendly and flexible working policies on an individual basis. The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze Award, which recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address gender equality in Higher Education and research. Please see the university’s family friendly webpages to find out more – Family-friendly Lancaster – Lancaster University
- The university is committed to supporting the professional and career development for all staff, for instance Lancaster University’s is fully commitment to the principles of the corcordat to support the career development of researchers. This has resulted in the university receiving the HR Excellence in Research Award.
Further information about the Department is available at: Chemistry – Lancaster University
Informal enquiries should be addressed to Dr Jamie Docherty (j.docherty2@lancaster.ac.uk)
Please upload a cover letter with your application.
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Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
Find out what it\’s like to work at Lancaster University, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology - 0580-25 employer: Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Conferences and Events+ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology - 0580-25
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in photochemical synthetic methodology. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of the Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University on LinkedIn. They can provide valuable insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to air-/moisture-sensitive techniques and catalytic method development. Be ready to explain how these experiences make you a suitable candidate for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider reaching out to Dr Jamie Docherty directly with any questions about the role or the research group. This shows initiative and genuine interest, which can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology - 0580-25
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter specifically for the Senior Research Associate position. Highlight your relevant experience in synthetic organic chemistry and any specific projects that align with the role's focus on photochemical synthetic methodology.
Showcase Your Publication Record: In your CV, emphasise your publication record in synthetic organic chemistry. Include details of your contributions to research papers, especially those that demonstrate independent problem-solving and innovation in the field.
Detail Relevant Experience: Clearly outline your experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques and any previous work in catalytic or photochemical method development. Use specific examples to illustrate your skills in advanced spectroscopic and analytical characterisation.
Highlight Project Management Skills: Demonstrate your project management capabilities by providing examples of how you've successfully managed research projects. Mention your ability to keep meticulous records, deliver results on time, and supervise junior researchers effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to synthetic organic chemistry. Highlight any publications and the impact of your work, as this will demonstrate your capability and innovation in the field.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
During the interview, be ready to provide examples of how you've tackled complex problems in your research. Discuss specific challenges you faced and the innovative solutions you implemented, as this role requires independent problem-solving abilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Photochemical Techniques
Since the position focuses on photochemical synthetic methodology, brush up on relevant techniques and methodologies. Be prepared to discuss your experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques and any advanced spectroscopic methods you've used.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the research group, ongoing projects, and the department's future direction. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
