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- 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: Competitive salary, full-time role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with chances to guide students and present at conferences.
- Why this job: Be part of a €6 million project shaping the future of materials discovery.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant fields; experience in ceramics and materials science.
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‑modify glass compositions for packaging applications in telecommunications. The candidate will work as part of the wider consortium in a €6 million Horizon Europe project (Simulingua) aimed at developing and validating next‑generation AI‑powered materials discovery tools.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan work effectively, including availability of resources (equipment usage), deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims, and report to line manager(s) on a regular basis.
- 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 and deliver 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.
Qualifications and Experience
- Hold a good honours degree (or equivalent) and a PhD (or close to completion) in chemistry, physics, materials science or electrical engineering.
- Knowledge of advanced characterisation of functional ceramics and glasses.
- Experience in inorganic chemistry and/or ceramics, materials science and defect/crystal chemistry of oxides.
- Knowledge and experience to support delivery of the project aims, e.g. solid‑state characterisation methods (X‑ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermal/chemical analysis), electrical testing (impedance spectroscopy, LCR, current‑voltage behaviour in capacitors, piezoelectrics).
- Experience of managing and leading projects covering multiple aspects and stakeholders (e.g. academic report writing skills; experience of delivering presentations).
- Commitment to health and safety, including experience carrying out and documenting risk assessments and COSHH assessments.
- Ability to provide guidance and support to research and project students.
Salary and Working Conditions
- Grade: 7
- Salary: £38,784 – £41,064 per annum
- Line manager: Sheffield project lead
- Direct reports: None
- Work arrangement: Full‑time
- Duration: Fixed‑term for 2 years
Contact
For informal enquiries about this job contact Ian M. Reaney, i.m.reaney@sheffield.ac.uk.
Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the Ceramic and Glass group or related fields. Attend seminars, workshops, or conferences where you can meet potential colleagues and mentors. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation showcasing your previous work, especially any projects related to ceramics, glasses, or AI-based materials discovery. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your experience and how it relates to the job. Focus on articulating your knowledge of advanced characterisation methods and project management.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience in materials science, ceramics, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your background aligns with the exciting work we're doing at StudySmarter!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about AI-based materials discovery and how your skills can contribute to our team. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through – we love to see that!
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, emphasise your research experience, especially in characterisation methods like X-ray diffraction or scanning electron microscopy. We’re keen to know how you’ve tackled similar challenges in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this fantastic opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of functional ceramics and glasses, especially in relation to AI-based materials discovery. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, as well as your experience with solid-state characterisation methods.
✨Show Your Project Management Skills
Since this role involves managing multiple aspects and stakeholders, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led projects in the past. Highlight your ability to plan effectively, meet deadlines, and report on progress, as these are key responsibilities for the position.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
This job requires liaising with consortium members, so demonstrate your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've collaborated on research projects or worked with diverse teams, and emphasise your communication skills when presenting updates or findings.
✨Safety First!
Health and safety is crucial in a lab environment. Be ready to discuss your experience with risk assessments and COSHH assessments. Showing that you prioritise safety will not only reflect well on you but also align with the culture at the University of Sheffield.