Research Fellow (UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in synthetic lanthanide and actinide organometallic chemistry.

This exciting project will focus on the design and synthesis of novel f-element organometallic complexes in low oxidation states, with a particular emphasis on studying their electronic structures and magnetic properties. The role offers an excellent opportunity to work in a leading research environment and contribute to cutting-edge developments in inorganic and organometallic chemistry.

The successful applicant will work within the School of Life Sciences under the supervision of Professor Richard Layfield, contributing to internationally recognised research on f-block chemistry.

About You

You will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in synthetic organometallic or coordination chemistry and demonstrate strong experimental and analytical skills.

Essential skills and experience include:

• Expertise in the synthesis and structural characterisation of air-sensitive compounds, including glove-box and Schlenk techniques.
• Proficiency in small-molecule X-ray crystallography, from crystal growth to data processing and publication.

Desirable skills include:

• Experience with solution-phase NMR spectroscopy and ligand synthesis.
• A willingness to learn and apply magnetic property measurement and data analysis techniques.

You should be able to:

• Work independently and demonstrate initiative.
• Supervise and mentor PhD and undergraduate research students.
• Communicate effectively and manage research activities to high standards.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and teamwork skills are essential.

About the School

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex is a leading centre for research and teaching in the chemical and biological sciences.

Our multidisciplinary research spans Chemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biosciences, Neuroscience, Ecology, and Conservation Biology. The School comprises five departments:

• Biochemistry & Biomedicine
• Genome Damage and Stability Centre
• Neuroscience
• Ecology & Evolution
• Chemistry
• We are home to the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre and 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 world-leading or internationally excellent, with 100% of our impact cases achieving the same rating.

The School proudly holds a Silver Athena Swan Award and is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all activities.

School of Life Sciences – University of Sussex

Why Work With Us

The University of Sussex offers a beautiful campus located beside the South Downs National Park, just five minutes from Falmer train station.

We provide:

• Excellent public transport and cycling access (including a cycle-to-work scheme)
• A collaborative, inclusive, and research-led community
• A 150-acre green campus with world-class facilities

Sussex is a globally recognised, research-led university where people are at the heart of our success — across teaching, research, and professional services.

Key Details

• Closing Date: 5 November 2025 (3:59 PM)
• Interview Date: 16 November 2025 (via Microsoft Teams)
• Expected Start Date: January 2026
• Contract End Date: 30 September 2026

Visa Sponsorship

This post has an eligible Skilled Worker visa SOC code and meets the salary requirements for sponsorship if appointed full-time at Grade 7.4.

Applicants requiring visa sponsorship may also be subject to ATAS clearance.