Research Fellow (109797-1024)

Location: University of Warwick Campus, Coventry

Duration: FTC for 12 months

About the Role  

For informal enquiries, please contact Julie Macpherson (Professor) at j.macpherson@warwick.ac.uk.

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work on an industrially funded project supporting the testing and optimisation of electrochemical technology for the destruction of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from drinking water. PFAS have been linked to several human health conditions and are present in almost all water sources. However, there are currently no scalable technologies capable of destroying these compounds, due to the strength of the C-F bond. A scaled up (pilot plant) electrochemical system is being trialled for PFAS destruction in conjunction with a collaborating national water company. The technology will utilise boron doped diamond (BDD) electrodes to destroy PFAS compounds by electrochemical advanced oxidation. Research at Warwick will involve work on a lab-scale electrochemical reactor capable of investigating different experimental conditions, solution matrices etc to run alongside the pilot plant and provide formative feedback. Quantification of PFAS removal from the water systems will be made using in-house analytical equipment at the University of Warwick. This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in a new collaborative venture tackling destruction of persistent and potentially toxic pollutants from drinking water both in the laboratory and in a water treatment facility.

The Warwick Electrochemistry and Interfaces Group (WEIG) is an internationally recognised electrochemistry research group based at the University of Warwick. WEIG is comprised of 30+ members from around the world. The Macpherson group, within WEIG, focuses on electroanalysis and sensing, electrochemical synthesis and treatment, is world-leading for research based around BDD and has close links to industry. Alongside the core research the successful candidate would also work collaboratively with other members of the research group working in similar areas. They will be provided with the space and resources to develop their own personal and career development. The contract is for a fixed term of 12 months, with the possibility of extension subject to further funding being secured.

We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis, even where a position is advertised as full-time, unless there are operational or other objective reasons why it is not possible to do so. 

About You

The ideal candidate would have a background in analytical chemistry and/or electrochemistry, ideally with previous experience of working with PFAS or in advanced oxidation fields. You love solving both scientific and technical problems to develop experimental systems. You should enjoy working in a team environment where your skills and expertise can contribute to world-class research output and be comfortable contributing towards the training of PhD and master’s students. You should also be excited about working closely with industry to develop a technology which may have a substantial impact on environmental water quality and healthcare.

For further information regarding the skills required for this role please see the personal specification section of the attached job description.

CLOSING DATE: Thursday 7th November 2024 at 11.55 pm

Full details of the duties and selection criteria for this role can be found in the vacancy advert on the University of Warwick's jobs pages. You will be routed to this when you click on the Apply button.

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