Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Chemistry

Fixed Term for 14 months

Start Date 1^st September 2025

The Opportunity

This post represents an exciting opportunity for an ambitious individual to join the group of Dr Peter Matthews in the School of Chemical & Physical Sciences. This EPSRC funded project, “SPIQUE: Semiconductor Photonics with InP Quantum Emitters, is a collaboration between Keele University and the Compound Semiconductor Manufacturing Hub for a Sustainable Future at Cardiff University.

The successful candidate will prepare InP quantum dots at Keele and develop methods for binding them to preprocessed GaN waveguides. They will combine solution processed QDs with scalable semiconductor processing to manufacture inexpensive and accessible single quantum emitters for quantum devices and exploit a major gap in a critical market. In this project we will develop materials that offer route to functional, efficient integrated photonic circuits which can be mass-manufactured at low cost. 

You will have, or be submitting, a PhD in chemistry/materials science/physics or other relevant discipline. You will have experience in the synthesis and characterisation of quantum dots, and be familiar with ligand exchange processes. You will be expected to work closely with partners in Cardiff, and receive training in testing the photonic circuits.

The Benefits

The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:  

• Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
• Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave  
• Excellent staff pension scheme   
• Access to continued personal, professional and career development   
• On site ‘outstanding’ nursery    
• Discounted health & fitness facilities on site  
• Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University’s Occupational Health provider.

The University

Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and for full post details and copies of job descriptions, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.

For informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Peter Matthews, p.d.matthews@keele.ac.uk. Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing date: 29^th April 2025

Interviews will be held on: TBC

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