Postdoctoral Research Associate in Supramolecular Chemistry

Fixed term for 12 months initially, with possibility to extend for a further 18 months.

An EPSRC-funded post-doctoral position is available in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Reading in the group of Dr James Cooper (https://www.cooperchemistry.com/). This role offers an exciting opportunity to join a research project investigating the conformational dynamics of prototypical molecular machines in lipid membranes. 

There is growing interest in placing mechanically interlocked molecules and synthetic molecular machines into lipid membranes, driven by the desire to understand and mimic the behaviour of biological transmembrane proteins. This project will investigate the conformational dynamics of these molecules in lipid membranes, which is essential for future molecular machines to work together across different length scales, between segregated compartments and with spatiotemporal control.

The project will involve organic synthesis, NMR spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy and fluorescence microscopy. It also involves a collaboration with the Central Laser Facility (CLF) at Harwell Science Campus, which will give you the opportunity to contribute to writing access proposals and will visit CLF to conduct research at this state-of-the-art facility.

You will receive excellent training in synthetic supramolecular chemistry and the chemistry of lipid membranes. You will have the opportunity to enhance your skills in a range of areas and will occupy a significant leadership role in a small, but ambitious, research team.

You will have, or are about to be awarded, a PhD in Supramolecular Chemistry (or closely related area) and either a BSc (Hons) or an MChem in Chemistry, or a closely related subject. It is essential that you have a high level of experience of organic synthesis. Experience in working with lipid membranes and mechanically interlocked molecules is desirable, but not essential.

Funding is available for 30 months. The post is offered for 12 months in the first instance, with the possibility to extend for a further 18 months.

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 2nd February 2025
Interviews will be held: 19th – 26th February 2025

Contact details for the advert

Contact Name: James Cooper
Contact Job Title: Lecturer in Organic Chemistry
Contact Email address: james.cooper@reading.ac.uk

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. Successful candidates not already holding a Skilled Worker visa issued before 4th April 2024 will need to have a relevant PhD qualification or qualify as a new entrant before being able to be sponsored.There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

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