Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the setup of a cutting-edge lab for robotic synthesis of energy materials.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge's Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, collaborative environment, and opportunities for international exposure.
- Why this job: Shape the future of materials science with automation and AI in an innovative research setting.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science with strong publication record and lab automation experience.
- Other info: Mentor students and collaborate with industry partners in a dynamic research culture.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 46049 £ per year.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 years in the first instance.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position to join the group of Professor Shijing Sun in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy at the University of Cambridge.
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team in establishing a new laboratory dedicated to the robotic synthesis of energy materials. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a cutting-edge research environment at the interface of chemistry, materials science, automation, and artificial intelligence.
The successful candidate will take a leading role in setting up the laboratory infrastructure, including advanced robotic platforms and instrumentation for automated chemical synthesis. They will establish protocols, oversee equipment calibration, and produce workflow documentation to ensure reliable and reproducible operation of the new facility. Beyond the initial set-up, they will drive the development of high-throughput solution-based synthesis protocols for inorganic and hybrid materials. This is a highly collaborative position with opportunities to present research outcomes at international conferences, publish in leading journals, and work closely with academic and industrial partners. The postholder will also mentor postgraduate students, playing an important role in building a dynamic, supportive, and collaborative laboratory culture.
Candidates must hold a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline, with a strong publication record. They should bring expertise in materials chemistry, experience with laboratory automation, particularly liquid-handling robots and inline optical characterisation, and familiarity with wet laboratory safety management.
It would be advantageous for applicants to have experience in the synthesis and characterisation of halide perovskites or metal¿organic frameworks, as well as in situ characterisation and its integration into autonomous platforms. Knowledge of scientific machine learning and its application to experimental workflows would also be highly desirable.
We are looking for a candidate who combines technical excellence with strong communication skills and a proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving. If you are excited by the prospect of helping to build a new laboratory from the ground up and advancing the frontier of autonomous materials discovery, we would be delighted to hear from you.
We reserve the right to fill the position with a qualified candidate prior to the conclusion of the advertising period.
Documents in support of applications should include a CV and a research statement.
Enquiries regarding the application process may be directed to Ana Talaban-Bailey:
Please quote reference LJ47187 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy
Salary
£33,002-£46,049
Reference
LJ47187
Category
Research
Date published
5 September 2025
Closing date
21 September 2025
Postdoctoral researcher in high-throughput experimentation employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral researcher in high-throughput experimentation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of materials science and automation. Attend conferences, workshops, or even casual meet-ups to chat with folks who might know about opportunities or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your previous work, especially any projects related to robotic synthesis or high-throughput experimentation. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out to research groups or labs that interest you, even if they’re not advertising positions. Express your enthusiasm and see if they’d be open to discussing potential roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure to tailor your CV and research statement to highlight how your experience aligns with the exciting work at the University of Cambridge.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral researcher in high-throughput experimentation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your PhD, relevant experience in materials chemistry, and any cool projects you've worked on. Tailor it to showcase how your skills align with the role – we want to see your passion for high-throughput experimentation!
Nail Your Research Statement: This is your chance to shine! Write a clear and concise research statement that outlines your past work and future ambitions. Make sure to connect your experience with the exciting opportunities at our new lab – we love seeing how you envision contributing to our team!
Follow the Application Instructions: We know it sounds basic, but following the application guidelines is crucial. Make sure to include all required documents, like your CV and research statement, and don’t forget to quote reference LJ47187 in your application. It helps us keep track of your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smooth process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at the University of Cambridge!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of materials chemistry and laboratory automation. Be ready to discuss your previous research, especially any experience with robotic synthesis or halide perovskites. This will show that you're not just a good fit for the role, but also genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this position is highly collaborative, be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight any mentoring experiences you've had, as well as how you've contributed to building a positive lab culture. This will demonstrate that you can thrive in a team-oriented environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the specific challenges the lab faces or the types of projects you might work on. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the lab's environment aligns with your career goals.
✨Practice Problem-Solving
Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to laboratory set-up or workflow documentation. Practising how you would approach these problems can help you articulate your proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving, which is key for this role.
