Research Fellow(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
October 27, 2025
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Synthetic Chemistry, with a focus on lanthanide and actinide organometallic chemistry.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to world-class research on f-element organometallic complexes in low oxidation states, exploring their electronic structure and magnetic properties. The successful candidate will design, synthesise, and characterise new compounds, working at the intersection of inorganic, organometallic, and materials chemistry.

You will work within the School of Life Sciences, joining an established and collaborative research group led by Professor Richard Layfield.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and synthesise new f-element organometallic complexes in low oxidation states.
  • Conduct air-sensitive synthesis using glove-box and Schlenk techniques.
  • Perform structural characterisation using X-ray crystallography, from crystal growth to data preparation and publication.
  • Apply solution-phase NMR spectroscopy and other analytical methods.
  • Learn and apply magnetic property measurement and related data analysis techniques.
  • Supervise and mentor PhD and undergraduate research students.
  • Work independently and collaboratively to achieve research objectives.
  • Prepare results for publication in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.

About You

Essential:

  • A PhD (awarded or near completion) in synthetic organometallic or coordination chemistry.
  • Proven experience with air-sensitive synthesis and glove-box/Schlenk line techniques.
  • Competence in X-ray crystallography, including data collection and structure refinement.
  • Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to lead and collaborate effectively.

Desirable:

  • Experience in ligand design and synthesis.
  • Familiarity with magnetic or electronic property measurements.
  • Experience in mentoring or supervising students.

About the School

The School of Life Sciences at the University of Sussex is one of the UK’s leading centres for research and teaching in the biological and chemical sciences.

We are a multidisciplinary community encompassing Chemistry, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Ecology, and Genomics, supported by world-class facilities and strong industry links. The School also hosts the Sussex Drug Discovery Centre, translating discoveries from bench to bedside.

Key highlights:

  • Over 50% of income derived from research grants.
  • Active portfolio exceeding £50 million in research funding.
  • REF 2021: 90.6% of Biological Sciences and 84.8% of Chemistry outputs rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
  • Proud holder of a Silver Athena Swan Award, reflecting our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

Located on a 150-acre campus beside the South Downs National Park, the University of Sussex offers a stunning and sustainable working environment, just five minutes’ walk from Falmer Station.

Benefits include:

  • Competitive salary and pension scheme.
  • Hybrid and flexible working options.
  • 30 days’ annual leave plus public holidays.
  • Cycle-to-work scheme and green travel incentives.
  • Inclusive, collaborative culture that values innovation and research excellence.

Visa Sponsorship Information

This position is eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route (SOC Code: 2119 – Natural and Social Science Professionals).
Applicants requiring a visa may also need ATAS clearance, depending on research content.

For details, visit:

Skilled Worker Visa – GOV.UK

How to Apply

Apply via the University of Sussex Job Portal by 5 November 2025 (3:59 PM).
Please include:

  • A cover letter detailing your suitability for the position.
  • A current CV highlighting relevant experience and publications.
  • Expected interview date: 16 November 2025 (via Microsoft Teams)
    Expected start date: January 2026

Equal Opportunities

The University of Sussex values diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
We particularly encourage applications from women and Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, who are underrepresented in STEMM fields at Sussex.

All work for the University must be conducted within the UK.

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