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 position in lanthanide and actinide organometallic chemistry.

The successful candidate will undertake cutting-edge research focused on the design and synthesis of new f-element organometallic complexes in low oxidation states, exploring their electronic structures and magnetic properties. This project offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a leading research programme in synthetic and coordination chemistry.

About You

You will have (or be close to completing) a PhD in synthetic organometallic or coordination chemistry, with proven expertise in air-sensitive compound synthesis using glovebox and Schlenk-line techniques.

You should also have experience in:

• Small-molecule X-ray crystallography, from crystal growth through to data preparation for publication.
• NMR spectroscopy and, ideally, ligand synthesis.
• A willingness to learn magnetic property measurement techniques and related data analysis is essential.

You should be capable of working independently and demonstrate strong leadership qualities, including the ability to supervise and mentor PhD and undergraduate researchers. Excellent communication, organisational, and team-working skills are also required.

About the School

The School of Life Sciences at Sussex is one of the largest academic schools in the University, encompassing world-class research in biological, chemical, and environmental sciences. Our work spans Chemistry, Biochemistry & Biomedicine, Neuroscience, Ecology & Evolution, and the Genome Damage and Stability Centre.

The School is home to the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, which bridges fundamental discovery and translational research. We have an active research portfolio exceeding £50 million and participate in 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.

We are proud holders of a Silver Athena Swan Award, reflecting our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our culture values kindness, integrity, collaboration, courage, and inclusion, ensuring a supportive and inspiring environment for staff and students alike.

Why Work With Us

Our campus, situated near the South Downs National Park, offers a vibrant and scenic setting just a five-minute walk from Falmer train station, with easy access to Brighton and the wider region.

We promote sustainable travel, including dedicated cycle routes and a cycle-to-work scheme.

As a research-led, internationally recognised university, Sussex is known for its innovative and inclusive academic community — where your expertise and creativity can truly make an impact.

Key Details

• Closing date: 5 November 2025, 3:59 PM
• Interview date: 16 November 2025 (remote, via Microsoft Teams)
• Start date: January 2026
• Contract duration: Fixed-term until 30 September 2026

Equality and Diversity

The University of Sussex is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We particularly welcome applications from women and Black and Minority Ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine, and Mathematics (STEMM) disciplines.

Visa Sponsorship

This position meets the salary and occupational criteria for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, if full-time and appointed at Grade 7.4. Please consult our [Skilled Worker Visa information page] for further details.
Applicants requiring visa sponsorship may also be subject to ATAS clearance.