The University of Warwick is seeking a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join the Department of Chemistry. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the cutting edge of synthetic organic chemistry, specifically focusing on the underexplored and highly promising field of enantioselective chalcogen bonding catalysis.
Research Fellow in Chemistry, University of Warwick, UK
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
| Job Title / Designation | Research Fellow (Post-Doctoral Research Associate) |
| Department | Chemistry |
| Location | University of Warwick Campus, Coventry, UK |
| Position Type | Fixed Term (30 months, with a potential 6-month extension) |
| Salary Range | £35,608 to £46,049 per annum (Note: If PhD is near submission/not yet conferred, appointment will be at Research Assistant level at £34,610 per annum) |
| Start Date | August 1, 2026 |
Research Area
The design and application of chiral chalcogen bond donors as enantioselective catalysts for molecular recognition and asymmetric transformations.
Enantioselective Chalcogen Bonding Catalysis
Chalcogen bonding is an unconventional non-covalent interaction between Lewis acidic chalcogen-containing molecules (S, Se, Te) and Lewis bases. While it shares similar binding energies with hydrogen bonding, its unique fundamental origin offers distinct advantages in substrate selectivity. The project builds on promising preliminary results to design and apply chiral chalcogen bond donors as enantioselective catalysts across a range of transformations, including conjugate additions, cycloadditions, and anion binding catalysis.
Key Responsibilities (Job Description)
- Research Leadership: Lead research activities within the group and actively contribute to generating new research ideas.
- Experimental Execution: Design, synthesize, and evaluate chiral chalcogen bond donors for enantioselective catalytic methodologies.
- Collaboration & Supervision: Work both independently and collaboratively within a team. You will have opportunities to supervise project students and participate in departmental teaching.
- Dissemination: Prepare research results for publication in high-impact journals and present findings at internal and external seminars and conferences.
- Professional Development: Engage in continuous professional development and departmental initiatives, supporting an inclusive research environment.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Background: PhD in Chemistry (or near completion/submission).
- Technical Expertise: Strong background and hands-on experience in synthetic organic chemistry.
- Desirable Experience: Prior experience working on (enantioselective) catalytic methodologies is highly desirable.
- Core Skills: Ability to work effectively both individually and as part of a multidisciplinary team, with strong written and oral communication skills.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the Warwick Careers Portal.
To apply, click the APPLY button on the portal and submit:
- A comprehensive CV (detailing employment, education history, awards, publications, and conference presentations).
- A Cover Letter demonstrating how you meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the official Job Description PDF.
For informal queries regarding the role, you may contact Dr. Mark Greenhalgh (Associate Professor) at mark.greenhalgh@warwick.ac.uk.
Application Deadline
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 11:55 PM (UK Time)
