Research Associate

The role

A postdoctoral research position in computational and theoretical photochemistry is available in the In Silico Photochemistry Group based in the Centre for Computational Chemistry in the School of Chemistry at the University of Bristol, supported by the EPSRC Grant EP/Y020731/1, Unpicking the influence of structure and solvent on the photochemistry of deprotonated keto acids.  The project is a collaboration between the Curchod group in Bristol and Prof Jan Verlet (Durham University).
Our project proposes to investigate experimentally and theoretically the products formed after deprotonated keto acids absorbed light, unravelling the different products these molecules can form. This information is of key importance for atmospheric chemistry as keto acids is believed to be key contributors to the formation of secondary organic aerosols, which are directly linked to air pollution and global warming.  In addition, we propose to investigate the influence that water, present in the atmosphere as droplets, can have on these light-triggered reactions of deprotonated keto acids. This position is connected to the theoretical part of this project and will involve the use of excited-state dynamics simulations for (microsolvated) deprotonated keto acids.
Further details of the In Silico Photochemistry Group can be found at www.in-silico-photochem.com.

What will you be doing?

The postdoctoral researcher will be based in the School of Chemistry at the University of Bristol where they will undertake theoretical and computational studies of the mechanisms of photochemical reactions of deprotonated keto acids in gas phase and in a microsolvated environment, in direct collaboration with the experimental group of Prof Verlet at Durham University. The key techniques to be employed will involve nonadiabatic molecular dynamics in gas phase and complex environment, using methods recently developed by the ISPG group, as well as high-level electronic structure methods. There will also be opportunities to develop new strategies to describe chromophores in complex environment and simulate experimental observables.

You should apply if

The position would best suit a talented and motivated early career researcher with a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry or Physics and experience in theoretical research using nonadiabatic molecular dynamics.  

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 30/04/2027

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 19/06/24

Interviews are anticipated to take place in July 2024

For informal queries, please contact: Dr Basile Curchod, basile.curchod@bristol.ac.uk 

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.

Advert information