Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Lanthanide and Actinide Organometallic Chemistry.

This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding synthetic chemist to contribute to pioneering research in the design, synthesis, and characterisation of new f-element organometallic complexes in low oxidation states. The project will focus on exploring their electronic structures and magnetic properties, advancing the understanding of molecular magnetism and f-block chemistry.

The successful candidate will work within a well-equipped research environment under the supervision of Professor Richard Layfield, gaining experience in cutting-edge techniques and potentially leading collaborative projects within the group.

About You

You will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in synthetic organometallic or coordination chemistry or an equivalent qualification.

Essential requirements include:

• Strong expertise in air-sensitive synthesis, including experience using glovebox and Schlenk-line techniques.
• Proven ability to synthesise and characterise novel organometallic or coordination compounds.
• Practical experience in single-crystal X-ray crystallography, including crystal growth, data collection, and refinement for publication.
• A solid understanding of solution-phase NMR spectroscopy and data interpretation.

Desirable attributes include:

• Experience in ligand synthesis.
• A willingness to develop expertise in magnetic property measurements and data analysis.
• The ability to work independently while also supervising and mentoring PhD and undergraduate researchers.

You will demonstrate excellent communication, organisational, and team leadership skills, with the motivation to contribute to a collaborative research environment.

About the School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences is one of the largest academic units at the University of Sussex, renowned for its excellence in chemistry, biological sciences, and interdisciplinary research. Our work spans from fundamental molecular science to applied translational research that impacts health, technology, and the environment.

The School comprises five departments:

• Biochemistry & Biomedicine
• Genome Damage and Stability Centre
• Neuroscience
• Ecology & Evolution
• Chemistry
• It also houses the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, which bridges basic research and therapeutic development.
• We are proud to host or contribute to three University Centres of Excellence:
• Genome Damage and Stability Centre
• Sussex Neuroscience

Sussex Sustainability Research Programme

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), 90.6% of our Biological Sciences outputs and 84.8% of our Chemistry outputs were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent, with 100% of impact cases achieving the same recognition.

The School is committed to the University’s core values of kindness, integrity, inclusion, collaboration, and courage, fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment for all staff and students.

The School proudly holds a Silver Athena Swan Award in recognition of its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity.

Why Work at Sussex

The University of Sussex campus is located off the A27, adjacent to the stunning South Downs National Park, offering a beautiful and inspiring place to work.

We are easily accessible by public transport — Falmer train station is a five-minute walk from campus, and multiple bus routes serve the area. Staff can also benefit from dedicated cycle paths and the Cycle to Work scheme.

As a world-leading, research-intensive university, Sussex recognises that its people are its greatest asset. Whether you are part of our academic, professional, or technical community, you will join an institution committed to excellence, inclusivity, and innovation.

Learn more about our:

• Reward and Benefits Package
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Additional Information

Visa Sponsorship:
This position has been assigned an eligible SOC code and meets the salary requirements for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship if appointed full-time at Grade 7.4. Please see the Skilled Worker Visa information page
for details.

ATAS Clearance:
This role may require ATAS clearance if visa sponsorship is needed.

Work Location:
All work for the University must be undertaken within the UK.

The University of Sussex is committed to equality and diversity. We particularly welcome applications from women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are currently underrepresented in STEMM disciplines at Sussex.