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- Tasks: Lead innovative research in photochemical synthetic methodology and optimise cutting-edge reactions.
- Company: Join Lancaster University's Chemistry Department, known for its collaborative and inclusive research environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave, flexible working options, and a supportive pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable chemistry while developing your skills in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Strong publication record in synthetic organic chemistry and experience with advanced analytical techniques required.
- Other info: Opportunity to train junior researchers and contribute to meaningful healthcare and materials projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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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Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology employer: Lancaster University
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the research work of Dr Jamie Docherty and the DochertyLab. Understanding their recent publications and ongoing projects will help you tailor your discussions during interviews and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the DochertyLab or the Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University. Engaging with them can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques and photochemical method development. Being able to articulate your hands-on experience will demonstrate your capability and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your project management and communication skills by preparing to discuss how you've successfully led projects in the past. Highlighting your ability to manage timelines and mentor junior researchers will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a cover letter that specifically addresses the role of Senior Research Associate in Photochemical Synthetic Methodology. Highlight your relevant experience in synthetic organic chemistry, problem-solving skills, and any previous work with photochemical or catalytic methods.
Showcase Your Publication Record: In your CV, make sure to include a section dedicated to your publication record. Emphasise any significant contributions to the field of synthetic organic chemistry, particularly those that demonstrate your innovation and independent research capabilities.
Detail Relevant Experience: When listing your work experience, focus on roles that involved air-/moisture-sensitive techniques, advanced spectroscopic/analytical characterisation, and project management. Use specific examples to illustrate your competencies in these areas.
Highlight Collaborative Skills: Since the role involves working in a collaborative environment, mention any past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team. Discuss your ability to train and supervise junior researchers, as well as your communication skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University
✨Showcase Your Publication Record
Be prepared to discuss your previous publications in synthetic organic chemistry. Highlight any innovative approaches you've taken and how they relate to the role, as this will demonstrate your expertise and independent problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working in a small, collaborative team, be ready to share examples of successful teamwork from your past experiences. Emphasise your ability to thrive in multidisciplinary environments and how you can contribute to the team's success.
✨Discuss Technical Expertise
Make sure to talk about your experience with air-/moisture-sensitive techniques and photochemical method development. Be specific about the analytical characterisation methods you are familiar with, such as NMR or MS, as this will show your technical competence.
✨Prepare for Project Management Questions
Expect questions about your project management skills. Prepare to discuss how you keep meticulous records, manage timelines, and supervise junior researchers. Providing concrete examples will help illustrate your organisational abilities.
