PDRA in Advanced Spectroscopy

We are seeking a talented and motivated early-career researcher to join the Energy Materials Laboratory at Newcastle University as a Research Associate (PDRA) in advanced spectroscopy. This role is part of the national Great British Chemicals consortium and focuses on developing The Analytical Toolbox for benign‑by‑design alternatives to enable more sustainable, low‑carbon and circular approaches to chemical manufacturing. You will develop and use a GB Chemicals analytical suite to enhance the understanding of (1) catalysis for upgrading fossil‑free feed stocks;

(2) chemical degradation products and their environmental implications. Both are linked by a need to understand the reaction mechanisms using in‑situ and operando spectroscopy. The post offers excellent opportunities for publications, collaboration and professional development, with strong mentoring and access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities.

The Great British Chemicals programme is a flagship investment funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). We will make, collate and translate knowledge from research on defossilising the chemicals value chain across technologies, policy, energy and industrial systems, to deliver impact in partnership with industry, civic bodies, national government and the third sector ensuring a strong economy, and an improved environment, which is fair, and creates inclusive opportunities.

The scheme will support the transition of UK industrial manufacturing processes and operations to net zero and drive a sustainable industrial future. This position is a crucial step for early‑career researchers aiming for careers in academia or industry, providing extensive experience in a high‑demand, impactful field.

Mentoring and career development planning with the PI and access to institutional training. Opportunities to develop advanced skills in automation, quantitative analysis and scientific writing through our 'People' theme. Conference attendance and networking within the national consortium of 10 universities, subject to project needs and budget. Support from a Scientific Officer and Research Technician.

• Plan, execute, and analyze experiments in catalysis, focusing on reactions such as ethanol oxidation, selective C‑C coupling and hydrogen transfer
• Employ a range of advanced spectroscopic methods (e.g., operando FTIR, Raman and photoluminescence) to characterize catalysts and investigate reaction mechanisms under realistic conditions
• Integrate experimental results with theoretical models and simulations to establish structure‑performance relationships that guide the rational design of new catalysts or processes
• Regular communication with collaborators across the consortium; presentation of results at lab meetings, workshops and conferences
• Preparation of manuscripts and contributions to shared protocols, SOPs and data repositories
• Assist in the training and supervision of PhD and master's students and help manage laboratory operations and safety protocols
• Hands‑on experience of infrared spectroscopy and Raman microscopy applied to heterogeneous catalysis and/or electrocatalysis
• Experience in at least two of: electrochemical analysis; photocatalysis; environmental monitoring to determine persistence of molecules
• Ability to analyze and interpret experimental data with attention to controls, reproducibility and record‑keeping
• Clear, concise scientific communication (written and oral)

• Experience with operando and in‑situ ATR‑IR, DRIFTs or Raman and/or time‑resolved vibrational spectroscopy
• Experience with photodegradation experiments
• Familiarity with computational modelling to inform experiments
• Experience with laboratory automation
• Competence in data analysis and visualization (R or Python)
• An understanding of green chemistry principles
• Track record of dissemination (preprints, peer‑reviewed publications, or conference presentations)

• Proactive, organised and collaborative with excellent time‑management
• Ability to work independently while engaging positively…