Postdoctoral Research Associate in Artificial Molecular Machines at University

Postdoctoral Research Associate – Artificial Molecular Machines

University of Oxford – Chemistry Department

This full‑time, on‑site position offers an exciting opportunity to conduct advanced research in synthetic and supramolecular chemistry. The project focuses on the design, synthesis and functional study of artificial molecular machines that interface with lipid bilayer membranes, including mechanically interlocked molecules, shuttles and other systems with controllable molecular motion. The role will last up to 24 months and requires independent research leadership and occasional supervisory responsibilities within the laboratory team.

• Plan, conduct and publish research on the synthesis of molecular machines for membrane integration.
• Apply quantitative and physical organic supramolecular techniques to characterise functional systems.
• Use fluorescence spectroscopy and other methods to analyse molecular behaviour in lipid vesicles.
• Manage own academic research agenda and administrative tasks to meet project milestones.
• Supervise junior team members and coordinate collaborative work as required.

• Hold or be close to completion of a PhD in synthetic chemistry, supramolecular chemistry or a related field.
• Have extensive experience in multistep organic synthesis and characterisation of complex molecules.
• Be skilled in quantitative supramolecular/physical organic or systems chemistry techniques.
• Demonstrate proficiency in analysing functional molecular systems embedded in lipid bilayer vesicles, especially via fluorescence spectroscopy.

• Location:
  
  Chemistry Research Laboratory, 12 Mansfield Road, OX1 3TA
  , Oxford.
• Duration:
  Fixed‑term up to two years, with potential for part‑time or flexible hours.
• Full‑time employment.

The University of Oxford and the Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under‑represented in Chemistry research posts at Oxford.