PDRA in Computational and Theoretical Chemistry

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational and Theoretical Chemistry with a particular emphasis on the statistical mechanics of liquid-solid interfaces. The successful candidate will work in the group of Dr Stephen Cox and the broad aims of the project are to elucidate the structure and dynamics of complex liquid-solid interfaces at a theoretical level. The main criteria for the role are a strong track record in world-leading research commensurate with applicant’s experience, along with a PhD in computational chemistry or related subject. Experience in molecular simulations (i.e., molecular dynamics and/or Monte Carlo methods) or liquid state theory (e.g., classical density functional theory) is highly desirable. The primary topic of research will be:

• Understanding how the solution environment impacts crystal morphology, with an emphasis of polar crystal surfaces [see, e.g., Sayer & Cox, JCP 153, 164709 (2020)].

The expected candidate will also be expected to engage other research topics in the group:

• Understanding the dynamics of charge/discharge processes in electrolyte and ionic liquid systems [see, e.g., Pireddu et al., PNAS 121, e2318157121 (2024)].
• Developing new theoretical approaches to efficiently describe solvation forces [see, e.g., Bui & Cox, J. Chem. Phys. 161, 104103 (2024); Bui and Cox, arXiv:2410.02556]

The successful applicant will be expected to work both independently and part of a team, and have excellent communication organisational and problem-solving skills.

This post is fixed term, with an end date of 30^th September 2026.

The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.

Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by as soon as possible noting the grant funding runs out 30th September 2026.

Please note that a higher starting salary may reduce the overall duration of this contract, dependent on salary offered. This can be agreed with the successful applicant a t the point of an offer being made.

Contact Information

Department contact for academic-related enquiries.

Please contact Dr Stephen Cox, stephen. with any questions.

University contact for general queries about the recruitment process.

If you have any queries about the recruitment process, please contact the recruitment team on: e.recruitment@durham.ac.uk

When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.

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