Research Assistant at University of Cambridge

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance, with a 6 months probation period and the possibility of extension.

This position is for a Research Associate/Assistant to work in Dr Emilie Ringe’s research group: https://www.msm.cam.ac.uk/people/ringe

The goal of this project is to explore the synthesis and functionalization of Earth-abundant plasmonic nanostructures, in the first instance based on Mg, for applications in photocatalysis. The syntheses required involve air-free reduction of reactive metals as well as their functionalization with metals and metal oxides; this will be performed using the PI’s air-free synthesis apparatus and glovebox, and supported by the PI’s optical setup and the department’s state-of-the-art electron microscopy suite. The project is funded by the European Research Commission.

The successful applicant will be required to undertake synthesis and characterisation of nanoscale multimetallic nanostructures. The position is available from January 1st, 2019.

Candidates should have a PhD, or about to be awarded a PhD, and a strong background in chemistry/materials science or closely related subject. Knowledge of nanoscale chemical synthesis including that of non-noble metals, solution-based metal or metal oxide coating, and extensive experience in bulk and single particle optical spectroscopy are required. Experience with electron microscopy image analysis and optical hyperspectral approaches are desirable. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required.

Applications to include a covering letter, curriculum vitae with a list of publications and presentations, a short research statement and the details of two referees.