Research Fellow

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a talented and motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow with expertise in synthetic chemistry to join our team at the University of Sussex. The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge research in lanthanide and actinide organometallic chemistry, focusing on the design, synthesis, and study of low-oxidation-state f-element organometallic complexes. The project will explore their electronic structures and magnetic properties, contributing to a deeper understanding of advanced inorganic chemistry.

About You

You should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in synthetic organometallic or coordination chemistry. Strong hands-on skills in air-sensitive synthesis using glove-box and Schlenk techniques are essential. Experience with X-ray crystallography, including crystal growth, data collection, and structure refinement, is required.

Additional desirable skills include:

Proficiency in solution-phase NMR spectroscopy and ligand synthesis

An interest in magnetic property measurements and associated data analysis

The ability to work independently while supervising and mentoring PhD and undergraduate students

Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills

This role is ideal for a proactive researcher looking to develop their leadership skills within a collaborative academic environment.

About the School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex conducts world-class research across chemistry, biology, neuroscience, and ecology. Our multidisciplinary approach connects molecular science to real-world applications, improving human health, technology, and environmental sustainability.

The School is home to five departments:

Biochemistry & Biomedicine

Genome Damage and Stability Centre

Neuroscience

Ecology & Evolution

Chemistry

We also host the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, which translates fundamental research into therapeutic innovation.

Key highlights include:

90.6% of Biological Sciences and 84.8% of Chemistry research outputs rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).

100% of impact cases rated world-leading or internationally excellent.

Over £50 million in active research grants.

Proud holder of a Silver Athena Swan Award for advancing gender equality.

We are committed to the University’s core values: kindness, integrity, inclusion, collaboration, and courage.

Why Work with Us

Our beautiful 150-acre campus sits next to the South Downs National Park, just a short walk from Falmer train station and accessible via public transport or dedicated cycle paths. We offer an inclusive and supportive workplace, flexible working options, and initiatives such as the Cycle to Work Scheme.

As a research-led, international university, Sussex is committed to nurturing innovation, inclusivity, and professional growth.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Sussex is dedicated to promoting equality and diversity. We especially welcome applications from women and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are currently underrepresented in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, and Mathematics) disciplines.

Learn more about our commitment to inclusion:
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion at Sussex

Visa Sponsorship Information

This role has been assigned an eligible Skilled Occupation Code (SOC) and meets the UKVI Skilled Worker Visa salary threshold for full-time appointments at Grade 7.4.

Applicants requiring visa sponsorship may also need ATAS clearance. For more details, visit:

Skilled Worker Visa – GOV.UK

ATAS Certificate – GOV.UK

The University requires that all work for this role be conducted within the UK.