Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry

Overview

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry to work under the supervision of Professor Charlotte Williams for 24 months. The post is supported by the EPSRC SCHEMA Hub. The research targets the preparation and properties of new plastics, thermoplastic elastomers and adhesives prepared from renewable resources and which are recyclable or degradable. Materials will be prepared by polymerising monomers like epoxides, carbon dioxide, anhydrides and cyclic esters/carbonates to produce new block polymers.

The characterization of the resulting materials will be undertaken using thermal, mechanical and rheological methods, as well as using spectroscopy and GPC methods. Materials will be tested in applications and end‑life recycling, including by depolymerization will be explored. The research is part of a large‑scale, multi‑disciplinary hub and, as such, the candidate will benefit from regular conferences, symposia, mentoring and industry partnership afforded by the hub.

• Manage day‑to‑day aspects of academic research and its administration.
• Conduct research on new plastics, thermoplastic elastomers and adhesives from renewable resources.
• Prepare monomers and polymerise using epoxides, carbon dioxide, anhydrides and cyclic esters/carbonates.
• Characterise resulting materials using thermal, mechanical, rheological methods, spectroscopy and GPC.
• Test materials in applications and end‑life recycling, including depolymerisation.
• Receive training in specific ring‑opening polymerisation catalyses applied in the project.
• Utilise Williams polymer characterisation laboratories and equipment including GPC, DMA, rheometer, TGA, DSC, UTA, impact pendulums, compression moulder, injection moulder and compo under.
• Join a dynamic team of experts working in polymerisation catalysis and polymer chemistry within the Williams research group.
• Receive support and mentorship from Prof. Williams in achieving career goals and in teaching and mentoring of masters and post‑graduate students.

• PhD in Polymer Chemistry (or close to completion).
• Experience of polymerisation catalysis prior to taking up the post.
• Expertise in using anaerobic techniques, including Schlenk lines and glove boxes, to make polymers.
• Experience of polymer characterisation techniques, including spectroscopy, GPC, DSC, TGA and tensile mechanical measurements.
• Experience with ring‑opening polymerisation beneficial.