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Recruitment Coordinator at Heriot-Watt University
Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Contract Type: Full Time (1FTE), Fixed Term (36 Months)
Rewards and Benefits: 33 days annual leave, plus 9 buildings closed days for all full time staff (Part time workers should pro rata this by their FTE). Use our total rewards calculator: https://www.hw.ac.uk/about/work/total-rewards-calculator.htm to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University
Detailed Description
The Dalgarno Group in the Institute of Chemical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University are seeking a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) with expertise in synthetic supramolecular / macrocyclic and coordination chemistries, and ideally some experience of molecular magnetism. The postholder will combine in/organic synthesis, single crystal and powder X-ray diffraction to assemble and structurally characterise new, highly symmetric molecular magnets, working with collaborators to develop magneto-structural correlations to discover and understand novel magnetic phenomena. This is an exciting opportunity to join a successful, inter-disciplinary team (https://researchportal.hw.ac.uk/en/persons/scott-j-dalgarno) with access to a wide range of world class facilities for synthesising and characterising new coordination clusters supported by novel building blocks.
The work will be undertaken in collaboration with Prof. Euan Brechin (https://edwebprofiles.ed.ac.uk/profile/professor-euan-k-brechin) and Prof. Chris Stock (https://www.ph.ed.ac.uk/people/christopher-stock), and in addition to offering the chance to develop new skills in cross-disciplinary techniques and pursue cutting-edge research, there will be opportunities to develop creativity and management skills. Candidates will be required to work meticulously to develop robust and reliable syntheses for both ligands and novel coordination clusters under a range of conditions. Candidates must also be able to work well independently but also as part of a large team, regularly reporting on progress to collaborators as well as broader audiences through e.g. conference presentations.
Candidates must hold a PhD degree in supramolecular chemistry, and will have experience in the synthesis, modification, analysis and structural characterisation of calixarenes (or other relevant macrocyclic platforms). With roles in research, practical application and knowledge sharing, the candidate will be required to have significant practical / analytical experience, and integrated knowledge of supramolecular / calixarene / macrocycle chemistry.
The post is fixed term (up to 36 months) and salary is based on the standard academic and related pay scale but will start at Grade 7, spine point 30. The postdoctoral minimum is at spine point 28. An enhanced professional development package will be provided to the selected candidate.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
* Conduct and manage research and related administrative activities, with guidance as required, ensuring that project aims, and objectives are met; development of novel, high symmetry polymetallic cages of paramagnetic transition and lanthanide metal ions, including organic and inorganic syntheses, single crystal and powder XRD, and all associated data analysis.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to document the research project and its progress. Regular reporting of progress, both written and oral, to the PI and other members of the research team. Manage Health and Safety risk assessments.
* Working as part of a large team, provide a leading role in ensuring the smooth running of the laboratory.
* Working closely with the supervisory team, develop and plan future research objectives.
* Contribute proactively to dissemination of research findings through conference presentations and drafting peer-review publications.
* Attend and present findings at research group meetings.
* Take part in the annual professional development review cycle to ensure skills sets are kept up to date and to identify any training needs relevant to the research.
* Ensure that all data collection undertaken as part of the project is done so ethically and in line with UK (GDPR) privacy and data protection policies, and in compliance with the requirements of the funder.
* Provide tutoring and assist in the supervision of PhD candidates and undergraduate student research projects as necessary.
Please note that this job description is not exhaustive, and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post and its general responsibilities. Activities may be subject to amendment over time as the role develops and/or priorities and requirements evolve.
Education, Qualifications and Experience
Education & Qualifications
* PhD in synthetic supramolecular chemistry or have submitted a PhD thesis prior to taking up the appointment.
* The candidate will be expected to have significant practical experience in synthetic calixarene (or other related macrocyclic) chemistry.
* A demonstrable record of success in previous research, as judged by publications in high-quality peer-reviewed journals, with evidence supporting intellectual and practical contributions to previous work.
* The candidate is expected to have experience in experimental design and associated risk assessments.
* Expertise in all routine analytical techniques (NMR, MS, IR, UV-vis, microanalysis) and the ability to handle complex single crystal X-ray structures is essential.
* An Ability to conceptualise problems and develop well-reasoned and logical viewpoints.
* An ability to convey detailed information in an articulate and enthusiastic manner is essential.
* Will be required to work meticulously in data gathering to develop robust mechanisms for research in addition to developing readily accessible methodologies.
* Fluent (verbal and written) in English.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Scientific Data Analysis and Graphing Tools and other relevant computer-based tools used in a modern research environment.
* Hardworking, punctual, proactive, willing to learn new methods and techniques.
* Must be able to work well independently but also as part of a team, providing leadership to junior colleagues.
* Flexible, self-motivated, and able to plan work for maximum efficiency.
* Good interpersonal and supervisory skills.
* Experience with PXRD.
* Extensive knowledge of synthetic coordination chemistry.
* Interest / familiarity / experience with molecular magnetism.
* Experience of supervising PGRs in a research lab setting.
* Enjoys being part of large and diverse team, and willing to take a 'hands on' approach from the outset.
How to Apply
Please must submit via the Heriot-Watt on-line recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing you interest and suitability for the post; (2) CV
Applications can be submitted until midnight on Wednesday 14th May 2025.
Seniority level
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