Research Associate - Chemistry in Birmingham

The Research Associate in Analytical Chemistry will focus on the characterisation, synthesis, chemical modification and polymer coating of magnetic nanoparticles for diagnostic and theranostic applications. The role emphasises organic separation, the analytical characterisation of the polymer‐coated nanoparticle surface, by‐product degradation and chromatographic separation, and applied research linked to Ferronova and funded through an ARC ITTC within the Smart Materials and Surfaces research group in the School of Chemistry and Electron Microscope Unit. The Associate reports to Professor Richard Tilley and has no direct reports.

Contract Details

• Base pay: $113K – $121K, plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading.
• Fixed Term: 12 months.
• Full‐time (35 hours per week).

Specific Responsibilities

• Design and conduct analytical chemistry studies of polymer‐coated nanoparticles for diagnostics using MRI, magnetic particle imaging, and therapy using targeting molecules, drug delivery, and radio‐therapy.
• Synthesize and characterise polymer‐coated magnetic nanoparticles and separate degradation bioproducts and reaction products from biological fluids.
• Perform surface analysis, transmission electron microscopy and magnetic measurements of magnetic nanoparticles.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks detailing all experiments.
• Complete experiments and deliver analysis results on time.
• Analyse and write results suitable for publication in peer‐reviewed journals.
• Contribute to scientific papers, reports for international journals, and progress reporting to colleagues and industry partners.
• Prepare research proposal submissions to funding bodies and actively seek industry collaboration.
• Coordinate research activities and contribute to outputs to meet project milestones.
• Present results at national and international conferences.
• Assist in training PhD and honours students.
• Demonstrate UNSW values, behaviours and code of conduct.
• Cooperate with all health and safety policies, ensuring actions do not impact the safety of self or others.

About the Successful Applicant (Selection Criteria)

• PhD specialising in analytical chemistry or chemical synthesis of polymers and nanoparticles.
• Demonstrated ability to characterise polymers, nanoparticles and by‐products.
• Experience in materials synthesis.
• Previous research experience and training of PhD and honours students.
• Proven ability to conduct high‐quality, independent academic research with limited supervision.
• Commitment to staying current with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Track record of publications and conference presentations.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills.
• Capability to communicate and interact with diverse stakeholders and students.
• Understanding of and commitment to UNSW's aims, objectives and values, and relevant policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of health and safety responsibilities and willingness to attend relevant training.

You should systematically address the selection criteria listed above in your application.

Contact

Professor Richard Tilley
Email: r.tilley@unsw.edu.au
Applications close: January 30th, 2025

UNSW is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. Applications from women, people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, those living with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ+ community, and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged. UNSW provides workplace adjustments for people with disability, and access to flexible work options for eligible staff. The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.

Additional Information

• Seniority Level: Mid‐Senior Level
• Employment Type: Full‐time
• Job Function: Research
• Industry: Higher Education and Research Services