Senior Research Fellow; Chemical Engineering

Permanent

Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford

Description:

The Department of Engineering Science intends to appoint a full time Senior Research Fellow (SRF) in Chemical Engineering, from 1 January 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. This is a permanent academic post, based at Begbroke Science Park (OX5 1PF
). There is a procedure to apply for title of Associate Professor (under the MPLS Procedure for Conferment of Title) and to apply for the title of Full Professor in due course.

The successful candidate will be expected to conduct original research in Chemical Engineering, augmenting the Department’s existing strengths with novel and complementary research activity. This appointment will strengthen research activity in decarbonisation, sustainability, and the energy transition, with particular focus on energy conversion and storage, positioning Engineering Science at the forefront of these critical areas in alignment with the University’s strategic priorities.

They will hold an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering or in a closely related field, as well as a doctorate in Chemical Engineering or a cognate discipline (such as Materials Science, Environmental Engineering or Chemistry). Professional experience and membership of professional bodies (such as IChemE or equivalent) is highly desirable.

The successful candidate will be expected to teach the IChemE Accredited Chemical Engineering Course within the Department at Undergraduate and Master’s level. This includes lecturing, tutoring and class-based teaching, examining, and leading laboratory practicals, as well as supervising research and/or design projects. Postgraduate teaching primarily involves research supervision of students pursuing MSc or DPhil degrees. It is expected that the successful candidate will help to plan, organise, and expand specific areas of the Chemical Engineering syllabus, contributing to the ongoing development of our IChemE accredited course.

We particularly welcome applicants with experience in chemical engineering teaching delivery, especially where this integrates insight from sustainability.

The successful candidates will report to the Head of Department and act as the leader of their research group, setting clear task objectives, developing productive working relations and line-managing the members of the team. They contribute to their development through induction, appraisal, and coaching.

The job reference is: DF26SR
FCh/VACANCY e quote this in all correspondence. The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Monday 12 October 2026
. Initial online interviews are expected to take place in November with in person interviews for shortlisted candidates in January.

For those invited to in-person interview, the department can provide accommodation and will cover reasonable travel expenses and reasonable additional caring costs incurred as a result of attending the interview (within agreed policy limits).