Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Metal Oxide Recycling

Salary

£32,080 to £47,389 per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35,608 with relevant PhD).

Chemistry

University Park

Sunday 05 July 2026

SCI
1294496

Postdoctoral Research Assistant

We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to work in the School of Chemistry on the dissolution and chemical transformation of metal oxides in sustainable solvents. The project will investigate the behaviour of metal oxide materials in alternative solvents such as ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, with the aim of developing greener approaches to metal processing, recycling, and materials chemistry.

• Undertake fundamental studies into chemical speciation and interfacial processes that occur during oxide dissolution.
• Conduct laboratory-based dissolution and quantification using ICP-OES/MS, and separation through electrochemical deposition.
• Apply advanced analytical chemistry techniques, including lab- and synchrotron-based X‑ray spectroscopies, to gain mechanistic understanding of metal‑solvent interactions, oxidation state changes, coordination environments, and dissolution mechanisms.
• Work closely with an external company and, where required, visit their site in Stoke‑on‑Trent to conduct material testing.

Applicants should have a PhD in Chemistry or a related field and experience in analytical chemistry, especially with ICP‑OES/MS and X‑ray spectroscopy methods. Experience with ionic liquids or deep eutectic solvents is desirable.

12 month fixed‑term contract, full‑time (36.25 hours per week).

We value diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity. The School of Chemistry holds a Silver Athena SWAN Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing women's careers in science. Relevant information can be found at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..advance‑‑charters/athena‑swan‑charter and ‑swan.aspx.

Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Coby Clarke at  Please note that applications sent to this email will not be accepted.