At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to innovate in natural resource chemistry and materials.
- Company: Be part of Oxford's prestigious academic community focused on sustainable resource solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, a great pension scheme, and childcare services.
- Other info: This is a full-time, fixed-term position for five years starting January 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global energy transition while collaborating across disciplines.
- Qualifications: Creative researchers with strong communication skills in natural resources are encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 49119 - 55031 £ per year.
Overview
The Department of Chemistry and the Department of Materials are seeking to appoint a Senior Research Associate in Natural Resource Innovation to join our thriving academic community. The post will commence on 5 January 2026 (or later by mutual agreement) and will be offered for five years.
This post is one of four new Senior Research Associate positions being created as part of Oxford EARTH (Equitable Access to sustainable Resources for a Thriving Habitat), a new strategic research programme. While this role will be based within Chemistry and Materials, the other three posts span across Geography, Law, Economics, Engineering, and Earth Sciences. Oxford EARTH works in close partnership with other major strategic research programmes at Oxford, including Oxford Net Zero, the Zero Institute, and Sustainable Chemistry.
Role and opportunities
The successful candidate will work at the forefront of resource innovation in Chemistry and Materials, and capitalise on these innovations and their far-reaching possibilities in the exploration and recovery of resources on Earth to meet the needs of the global energy transition.
We welcome applications from creative researchers working in the broad field of natural resources, including (but not limited to):
- Material research and development for circular economy
- Green elemental extraction and recovery
- Waste valorisation (e.g., biomass, polymer, battery & CO2)
- Resource recycling and recovery
- Green hydrogen
Working in partnership with the broader Oxford EARTH team, in particular engagement and collaboration with the social sciences the successful candidate will have strong communication and interpersonal skills to enable the formation of good working relationships with all internal and external stakeholders. Additionally, there may be the opportunity to deliver class teaching and demonstrations on relevant natural resource topics.
Informal discussion
For an informal discussion about the role and opportunities to join the academic community at Oxford, please contact Professors Dermot O\\\'Hare or Katharina Marquardt. All enquiries will be treated in strict confidence and will not form part of the selection process.
This post is fixed-term for 5 years and offered on a full-time basis.
What We Offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees\\\' well-being, and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans.
Application Process
You will be required to upload a covering letter with a supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. In your supporting statement, please explain how you meet each of the selection criteria found in the job description, and why you would like to do this role. See guidance at https://www.jobs.ox.ac.uk/cv-and-supporting-statement.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Monday 20th October 2025. Only applications submitted by this time will be considered.
Contact
Anna Giorgi
Vacancy ID: 181777
Contact Phone:
Contact Email: anna.giorgi@chem.ox.ac.uk
Salary (£): £49,119 - £55,031.
Oxford EARTH Senior Research Associate in Chemistry and Materials for Natural Resource Innovation employer: University of Oxford
At Oxford, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that fosters innovation in the field of natural resource research. Our commitment to employee well-being is evident through our generous benefits package, including 38 days of annual leave and a comprehensive pension scheme, alongside opportunities for professional growth and engagement with a diverse academic community. Joining us means becoming part of a pioneering initiative that not only addresses global challenges but also encourages personal and professional development in a vibrant and inclusive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Oxford EARTH Senior Research Associate in Chemistry and Materials for Natural Resource Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former researchers in the field of natural resource innovation. Attend relevant conferences or seminars to connect with professionals who can provide insights into the role and potentially refer you.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the ongoing projects within the Oxford EARTH programme. Understanding their goals and challenges will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with their mission during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your research ideas and how they could contribute to the circular economy and green technologies. Being able to present innovative concepts will demonstrate your creativity and fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out for an informal discussion with Professors Dermot O'Hare or Katharina Marquardt. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also gives you a chance to ask specific questions about the role and the team dynamics.
We think you need these skills to ace Oxford EARTH Senior Research Associate in Chemistry and Materials for Natural Resource Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Senior Research Associate position. Pay special attention to the selection criteria and ensure you understand how your experience aligns with them.
Craft a Tailored Covering Letter:Write a covering letter that specifically addresses why you are interested in this role and how your background in Chemistry and Materials makes you a suitable candidate. Highlight any relevant research or projects that demonstrate your expertise in natural resource innovation.
Develop a Strong Supporting Statement:In your supporting statement, clearly explain how you meet each of the selection criteria outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate your skills and achievements related to material research, green extraction, and collaboration.
Prepare Your CV and Referees:Ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your academic qualifications, research experience, and any teaching roles. Include the details of two referees who can vouch for your professional capabilities and character, ensuring they are aware they may be contacted.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Understand the Role and Its Impact
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Senior Research Associate position and how it fits within the Oxford EARTH programme. Familiarise yourself with the key areas of focus, such as green elemental extraction and resource recycling, to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous research projects in detail, especially those related to natural resources and materials innovation. Highlight any relevant publications or collaborations that showcase your ability to work at the forefront of resource innovation.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role requires strong communication and interpersonal skills, be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse teams or engaged with stakeholders in your past roles. This will show your ability to work effectively within the broader Oxford EARTH team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the opportunity to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful inquiries about the research environment, potential collaborations, or teaching opportunities. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the role and the academic community at Oxford.
