Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Polymer Chemistry to work with Professor Charlotte Williams for a period of up to 24 months. The post is supported by the EPSRC through the Sustainable Chemicals and Materials Manufacturing Hub (SCHEMA) and focusses on the development of sustainable oligomers and polymers for use in a range of applications, including consumer products, formulations and as additives/impact modifiers. These materials will be prepared from renewable monomers, including carbon dioxide, cyclic esters (lactones) and carbonates, epoxides, and anhydrides. These polymers are designed to be functional, recyclable and, for applications requiring it, fully degradable. Target polymers include materials comprising ester, carbonate and ether linkages in the backbone. The use of precision polymer synthesis methods will allow for the evaluation of structure-property relationships, influenced by various factors including polymer molar mass, architecture, regio/stereochemistry, and repeat unit sequence.

 

We seek a candidate motivated to work as part of our diverse, multi-disciplinary hub research team and interesting to engage with the end-users and technology partners. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are from under-represented groups, including women and candidates from black and ethnic minority communities. Our research team is diverse and inclusive.

 

Find out more about the Sustainable Chemicals and Materials Manufacturing Hub (SCHEMA) at: Sustainable Chemicals and Materials Manufacturing Hub (schemahub.ac.uk) 

 

 

Applicants must hold a PhD in Polymerisation Catalysis or Polymer Chemistry or a related area, (or be close to completion) prior to taking up the appointment. The research requires expertise in polymerization catalysis, polymer synthesis (for the preparation of oxygenated polymers including polyesters/carbonates/ethers). As a member of the SCHEMA hub, you will be expected to manage your own academic research and administrative activities, including small scale project management to co-ordinate multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines.

 

As part of the SCHEMA Hub, you will have the opportunity to integrate and work broadly alongside the Hub’s academic and industrial partners, including other postdoctoral researchers and industrial scientists. We will support your career development and provide opportunities for professional development and training in the role.

 

The post will be based in the Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory, 12 Mansfield Road, OX1 3TA and is available from 6 January 2025.

 

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your application.  In your supporting statement (maximum 2 pages), please explain how you meet each of the selection criteria found in the job description.

 

 

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, 2 December 2024, UK time. Interviews will be held on 11 December 2024.

 

The University of Oxford and The Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under-represented in Chemistry research posts in Oxford.

 

Best practice in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion has been core to the design of the SCHEMA Hub and we seek to create a model and culture for inclusive world-leading research regardless of sector.