The University of Bath invites applications for a Post Doctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Polymer Chemistry (SCHEMA) within the Department of Chemistry. This full-time, fixed-term position offers an exciting opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in polymer chemistry and sustainable catalysis under the mentorship of Professor Matthew Davidson, collaborating with academic and industrial leaders across the UK.
Overview
| Designation | Post Doctoral Research Associate |
| Research Area | Sustainable Polymer Chemistry, Polymerization Catalysis, Renewable Monomers |
| Department | Department of Chemistry |
| Institution / Location | University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom |
| Salary | Starting from £38,784, rising to £46,049 per annum (Grade 7) |
| Contract Type | Full-Time, Fixed-Term (up to 24 months / 2 years) |
| Last Date for Apply | Thursday 26 November 2026 |
Job Description
The post is funded by the EPSRC through the Sustainable Chemicals and Materials Manufacturing Hub (SCHEMA), which seeks to achieve a step change in UK sustainable chemical and polymer manufacturing. As part of this role, you will:
- Focus on sustainable catalysis for preparing novel plastics utilizing ring-opening polymerization, ring-expansion polymerization, and polycondensation of renewable monomers.
- Design, synthesize, and investigate robust and highly selective catalysts to yield controlled polymer architectures with desired target properties for both commodity and high-value applications.
- Utilize anaerobic techniques, including glove boxes and Schlenk lines, for preparing sensitive catalysts and polymers.
- Perform comprehensive catalyst and polymer characterization using techniques such as spectroscopy, GPC, DSC, TGA, and tensile mechanical measurements.
- Collaborate with partner universities and industrial stakeholders through regular research symposia, mentorship sessions, and SCHEMA Hub training events.
- Engage in professional development opportunities (minimum of 10 days pro rata per year allocated for research staff).
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates must fulfill the following criteria prior to taking up the post:
- Education: A PhD in Polymer Chemistry (or close to completion/held prior to start).
- Experience: Demonstrated practical experience in polymerization catalysis.
- Technical Skills: Expertise in anaerobic synthetic techniques (Schlenk line and glovebox handling).
- Characterization: Hands-on experience in polymer/catalyst characterization techniques, including GPC, NMR/spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and tensile mechanical testing.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official University of Bath recruitment portal. Before applying, please review the full job description and person specification on the recruitment page.
For informal enquiries regarding the role and research project, you may contact Professor Matthew Davidson via email at chsmgd@bath.ac.uk.
Apply Link: Apply Online at University of Bath (Vacancy Ref: SS14070)
