Postdoctoral Research Associate

Full time: 35 hours

Fixed term: 14 months 

We seek a talented and self-motivated postdoc to work on a project in the ion spectroscopy and laboratory astrochemistry team led by Dr. E. K. Campbell. The position is offered for up to 14 months. The earliest starting date for the successful candidate is 1^st March 2025. 

The Opportunity:

We offer an exciting opportunity to carry out state-of-art spectroscopic experiments at the School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh. The project is motivated by one of the most exciting breakthroughs in astrochemisty over the last several decades: the iconic Buckminsterfullerene cation C₆₀⁺ was identified as a carrier of several diffuse interstellar bands (DIBs). This has not only provided the first answer to one of the most perplexing and longest standing problems in molecular spectroscopy and observational astronomy but also lays a roadmap toward revealing and understanding the molecular inventory of the interstellar medium (ISM), during a key stage in the evolutionary cycle of stars. Through this project, gas phase electronic and infrared spectra of fullerenes, their analogues, and related molecular ions of long standing astrochemical interest will be obtained for the first time using a combination of modern laboratory tools. These will be recorded at temperatures relevant to the ISM in experiments that exploit the unique capabilities of cryogenic radiofrequency (RF) ion traps. Ultimately, the goal is to address the grand challenge of identifying some of the remaining DIB carriers, and to understand their importance in our molecular universe.

Your skills and attributes for success: 

• Experience in gas phase laser spectroscopy
• Experience working with high vacuum and cryogenic instrumentation
• Ability to work as part of a team

Excellent written and oral communication skills

Closing date: 10/02/2025 11.59 PM

Advert information