Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemistry Heterogeneous Catalysis at Durham University

UK Catalysis Hub; North East; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemistry Heterogeneous Catalysis to contribute to an innovative project aimed at reducing agricultural methane emissions. This role involves conducting cutting-edge research on catalyst materials, collaborating with a diverse team, and presenting findings to various audiences. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD in Chemistry or a related field and have strong research and presentation skills. This exciting position offers the opportunity to engage in impactful research while contributing to a project with significant environmental implications. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions in agriculture.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or related field required.
• Strong research and presentation skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental research on heterogeneous catalysis.
• Prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs.
• Publish high-quality research papers and collaborate with partners.

Skills

Research Skills

Presentation Skills

Collaborative Skills

Problem-solving Skills

Technical Writing

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Tools

Catalyst Characterization Techniques

Kinetic Testing Equipment

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemistry Heterogeneous Catalysis at Durham University

A PDRA post in heterogeneous catalysis, encompassing catalyst preparation, characterization and kinetic testing, is available from 1st October 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter, for a period of 18 months, to work in association with Dr Simon Beaumont. The post is to work on “CANMILK” an exciting EU Horizon Europe consortium project (funded through Innovate UK under the UK Horizon Europe guarantee scheme) exploring new ways to tackle agricultural methane emissions, specifically from dairy barns. The postholder will be responsible for research on adsorbent and catalyst materials in a component of the project closely associated with the company partner Johnson Matthey. The key challenge is focused on overcoming the difficulties associated with oxidation of dilute methane feedstreams through non-conventional catalysis. Other project partners include Durham University’s Engineering Department, VTT and Valio (Finland), University of Antwerp, University of Maastricht, and Steinbeis Europa Zentrum and the postholder will be expected to actively engage in collaborative activities including those focused towards dissemination/exploitation of project results.

Key responsibilities:

• To conduct experimental research within the CANMILK project under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder, keeping effective records and assisting in the preparation of project reports.
• To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.
• To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include: research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
• To publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate.
• To be involved in student supervision, as appropriate, and assist with the assessment of the knowledge of students.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by participation in the undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programmes or by membership of departmental committees, etc. and by attending relevant training and development courses.
• To participate as necessary in consortia meetings related to the wider CANMILK research project.

This post is fixed term for 18 months. The funding is available for this fixed period only.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1st October 2024.