Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) position for research as part of the Dr Alex Neale's UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship - Probing the interfaces of electrocatalytic lithium-mediated nitrogen reduction: revealing a route to sustainable, localised ammonia production. This post is available for 2 years with extension options subject to performance. This Fellowship aims to understand a new, electrochemical path to ammonia, the lithium-mediated nitrogen reduction reaction (Li-NRR) and other earth-abundant metals (M-NRR). NH3 production is a huge and critical industry, vital in supplying fertiliser materials required for global food security. However, the Haber Bosch process is extremely polluting (>2% of anthropogenic CO2 production) and typically centralised within developed countries. As a room-temperature electrocatalytic reaction that can be powered using renewable electricity, Li/M-NRR is envisaged as a sustainable, scalable method to decentralise NH3 synthesis, improving fertiliser equity and realising NH3's potential as a zero-carbon fuel. The broader Fellowship programme focuses on the development and application of operando vibrational spectroscopy and optical/electron microscopy techniques to probe the reaction interfaces of Li/M-NRR. These methods will build intricate understanding of the critical reaction mechanisms, film properties, and reaction/efficiency bottlenecks needed to improve the process. We are looking for an individual with strong research skills in the areas of electrochemistry, spectroscopy, and synthesis to investigate the Li-NRR for ammonia synthesis. You will focus on using electrochemical and Raman spectroscopic methods to understand and improve the reaction. This includes developing electrochemical testing protocol combined with rigorous methodologies for reliably quantifying ammonia production (e.g., high-powered NMR, isotopic testing, chromatography). A key aspect of this work will be the development of advanced operando/in situ Raman spectroelectrochemical techniques, including the design of bespoke measurement equipment, to spectroscopically track reaction mechanisms and film formation and evolution during the electrochemical measurements. This will be used to design optimised materials and conditions to better the control the reaction for efficiency, selectivity, and stability. As part of the formation of a new laboratory and team within the Stephenson Institute for Renewable Energy (SIRE) and Department of Chemistry, you will be involved in shaping experimental, equipment, and lab design to advance these methods, as well as collaboration opportunities with national and international partners. We are looking for a candidate who holds (or will soon hold) a PhD in Chemistry (or related areas in materials science and physical chemistry) whose main responsibilities will be: Using in situ/operando Raman spectroelectrochemistry, coupled with enhancement effects, to track Li-NRR for ammonia synthesis Developing complementary electrochemical testing equipment/protocols for synthesising ammonia via the Li/M-NRR, and post-characterisation protocol for quantifying product formation. Undertaking synthesis of Shell-isolated Nanoparticles for Enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS). Data analysis, interpretation, and reporting to group, project partners, and relevant audiences. Dissemination of research findings finding in academic journals and presentations at (inter)national conferences, Lab supervision and support for PhD and undergraduate project students. For queries regarding applying online for this post, please contact Dr Alex Neale ( alex.neale@liverpool.ac.uk ). If you are still awaiting your PhD to be awarded you will be appointed at Grade 6, spine point 30. Upon written confirmation that you have been awarded your PhD, your salary will be increased to Grade 7, spine point 31. Commitment to Diversity The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA community.