PDRA for EPSRC-NSF lead agency opportunity

PDRA for EPSRC-NSF lead agency opportunity

Posted 3 days ago by The University of Manchester

Negotiable
Undetermined
Hybrid
Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Summary: The University of Manchester is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Chemical Engineering to collaborate on an EPSRC–NSF funded project focused on designing advanced metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for enhanced proton conductivity and photocatalytic performance. The role involves working with a diverse team of researchers and requires expertise in molecular simulations and theoretical modeling. This fixed-term position offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of materials design and energy solutions. Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field and a strong research background.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct molecular and ab initio simulations to design next-generation metal–organic frameworks (MOFs).
  • Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of researchers from various institutions.
  • Engage in experimental synthesis and characterization of MOFs.
  • Contribute to research publications and present findings at conferences.
  • Participate in the development of machine learning models for materials design.

Key Skills:

  • PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
  • Expertise in molecular simulations and theoretical modeling of adsorption phenomena in MOFs.
  • Strong record of research excellence and publication.
  • Independent and creative scientific thinking.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Salary (Rate): undetermined

City: Manchester

Country: United Kingdom

Working Arrangements: hybrid

IR35 Status: undetermined

Seniority Level: undetermined

Industry: Other

Detailed Description From Employer:

We are seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Manchester, working with Professor Lev Sarkisov on an exciting EPSRC–NSF funded collaboration. This position is part of a vibrant international and interdisciplinary partnership involving Professors Martin Schröder and Sihai Yang (University of Manchester), Professor Alexander Neimark (Rutgers University), Dr Mathias Steiner (IBM Research), and Dr Yongqiang Cheng (Oak Ridge National Laboratory). Together, the team integrates molecular and ab initio simulations, machine learning, and experimental synthesis and characterisation to design next-generation metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with enhanced proton conductivity and photocatalytic performance for water splitting. The successful candidate will join a leading computational research group with a strong track record in modelling MOFs for carbon capture, clean energy, and sustainable technologies. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research at the interface of materials design, computation, and energy innovation. We welcome applicants who hold, or are close to completing, a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline, with expertise in molecular simulations and theoretical modelling of adsorption phenomena in MOFs. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong record of research excellence, publication, and independent, creative scientific thinking. The post is offered on a fixed-term contract of 1.5 years, with a probationary period of nine months.

What you will get in return: Fantastic market leading Pension scheme Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays Additional paid closure over the Christmas period Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit. The School is committed to Athena SWAN principles to promote women in science; the School's website documenting activity in this area can be found at: http://www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/athena-swan/. We positively welcome applications from women, who are currently under-represented at this grade. Appointment will be made on merit. Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application. Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies. Any recruitment enquiries from recruitment agencies should be directed to People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk. Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift. Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews: Name: Professor Lev Sarkisov Email: Lev.Sarkisov@manchester.ac.uk General enquiries: Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk Technical support: https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date. Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.