Job detail for Research Associate in Materials Chemistry

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Research Associate. A postdoctoral Research Associate position is available for an outstanding and ambitious researcher with a proven track record in synthetic chemistry, polymer membranes and molecular transport to undertake research in the group of Dr Ashok Keerthi at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Manchester. The project aims to produce ultra-thin polymer-based membranes and fluidic chips with polymers of intrinsic porosity (PIMs), to study molecular and ionic permeation for ionic gating, ionic memory applications, and molecular separations. You will be expected to publish academic papers and contribute towards advanced new concepts. Keerthi’s research group focuses on synthetic engineering of molecular architectures such as 1D graphene nanoribbons, 2D framework materials and polymers of intrinsic porosity through bottom-up synthesis. Team works on new types of molecular architectures to tailor the function and properties. For further information about the research group, see webpage http://ashokkeerthi.weebly.com/. The successful applicant should have, or be working towards a PhD in materials chemistry, membranes, polymer science and engineering related areas. The applicant should be capable of working under their own initiative and should be familiar with common laboratory techniques, general analytical tools and handling of ultrathin membranes or nanofabrication methods. High level of English communication, both oral and written, is required. The start date is 15th June 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, and the position is available for one year with possible extension of two more years.

You will be responsible for:

• Conduct original research and collaborate within the group and internationally as per the project needs
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with the assistance of a mentor if required
• Conduct individual and collaborative research projects
• Write up research work for publication
• Communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You

We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria:

• A PhD (or be about to obtain) in synthetic chemistry, polymer science or membranes with experimental work in chemistry, materials science or chemical engineering
• A strong publication record in internationally peer-reviewed journals and an ability to write scientific reports and contribute to writing research papers
• Experience of working with electrochemical measurements, electrical source meters, precision electrical meters, patch-clamp amplifiers, neuromorphic measurements
• Significant experience of nanofabrication, measurement and of ultrathin membranes, 2D materials van der Waals
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Desirable Criteria:

• Expertise in
• Experience of working in nanofluidics/membrane technologies
• Experience in clean room micro/nanofabrication and working with 2D materials devices
• Experience of sequencing measurements with biomolecules

We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:

• Generous employer contribution pension

• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure

• Ride to work and EV car scheme available

For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews

Name: Dr Ashok Keerthi

Email: ashok.keerthi@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries and administrative support

.people@manchester.ac.uk

Technical and job portal support

https://.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.

Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.