Summary
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position focused on polymerization and depolymerization catalysis under the supervision of Professor Charlotte K. Williams. The project is funded by the EPSRC UK Catalysis Hub and focuses on designing advanced homogeneous catalysts for polymer formation and chemical recycling. The research aims to develop sustainable catalytic systems for converting monomers into polymers and back into reusable feedstocks.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymerization and Depolymerization Catalysis – University of Oxford (UK)
Designation
Research Associate (Postdoctoral Fellow) – Grade 7
Salary: £39,424 – £47,779 per annum
Research Area
- Homogeneous polymerization catalysis
- Depolymerization and chemical recycling of polymers
- Organometallic and inorganic catalyst design
- CO₂–epoxide copolymerization
- Polyester and polycarbonate degradation
- Reaction kinetics and mechanistic catalysis
- Air-sensitive synthesis and catalyst characterization
Location
Department of Chemistry
Chemistry Research Laboratory
University of Oxford, UK
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should have:
- PhD (or near completion) in Chemistry
- Strong background in inorganic or organometallic chemistry
- Experience in homogeneous catalysis
- Hands-on expertise with air-sensitive techniques:
- Schlenk line operations
- Glovebox handling
- Experience in characterization techniques:
- NMR spectroscopy
- IR spectroscopy
- Mass spectrometry
- X-ray diffraction (XRD)
- Knowledge of polymerization catalysis and/or kinetics is desirable
- Ability to manage independent research and academic administration
Job Description
The selected candidate will:
- Develop and study heterometallic polymerization catalysts
- Investigate polymerization of:
- Epoxides
- CO₂
- Cyclic anhydrides
- Cyclic esters/carbonates
- Perform kinetic and mechanistic studies using:
- In situ spectroscopy
- Calorimetry
- Reactor-based analysis
- Polymer characterization methods
- Isolate and study catalytic intermediates
- Conduct polymer depolymerization research, focusing on:
- Polyesters
- Polycarbonates
- Chemical recycling to monomers
- Contribute to understanding structure–activity relationships in catalysis
- Participate in training, seminars, and conferences under the UK Catalysis Hub
- Engage with early-career research networking and scientific dissemination
How to Apply
- Applications must be submitted online
- Upload required documents:
- CV
- Supporting statement
- Do NOT submit certificates, references, or research papers at this stage
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview
Last Date for Apply
23 July 2026 (12:00 midday, UK time)
Interviews will be scheduled shortly after the closing date.
