The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced individual for the position of Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Prof. Jim Thomas’ and Prof. Julia Weinsteins laboratories, within a vibrant scientific environment at the University of Sheffield. We take an innovative approach with an emphasis on interdisciplinary research in the synthesis and characterisation of photoactive complexes that will function as building blocks for the self-assembly of multiple component supramolecular architectures. The principal aim of this exciting project is to develop novel photodynamic therapy drugs for oral cancer. This project is in collaboration with Prof. Helen Bryant in the School of Medicine and Population Health.

You will have a PhD (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant subject and be competent in expertise in the synthesis and characterisation of polypyridyl d6 metal complexes and associated ligand synthesis. You should have a keen interest in research focussed on the biological application of photoactive metal complexes. Previous experience of coordination chemistry and the characterisation of photoactivated/luminescent compounds including emission spectroscopy and TCSPC are essential, experience in steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopic studies on such systems using laser-based methods and characterizing reversible interactions between such complexes and biomolecules is desirable.

You will be integrated within a broader network of dynamic, enthusiastic researchers including Clinical staff, Biologists and Chemists. Your career development will be well supported, and specific training will be provided where necessary.

Main duties and responsibilities

●       Synthesize and characterize previously reported and new oligotopic ligands for coordination chemistry

●       Synthesize and characterize previously reported and new d6 transition metal complexes based on the ligands.

●       Characterize the optical properties of these complexes through steady-state and time-resolved emission spectroscopy.

●       Characterize electron- and energy transfer processes in these complexes in solution and in presence of biomolecules, through time-resolved laser spectroscopy, including transient absorption and infrared studies, and including global data analysis.

●       Determine the yield of singlet oxygen generation by the new complexes using both laser-based and indirect methods.

●       Investigate and quantify the interaction of these complexes with specific biomolecules in cell-free studies.

●       Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, including clinical staff and biologists.

●       Help supervise Masters and PhD students, offering day-to-day mentorship and support as needed.

●       Generate high-profile research outputs to contribute to the research excellence of the School.

●       Present research findings at local, national and international conferences.

●       Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Further Information

Grade: 7

Salary: £38,249- £40,497

Work arrangement: Full-time

Duration: 3 years

Line manager: Principal Investigator of Research Project

Direct reports: N/A

Our website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/mps/people/all-academic-staff/jim-thomas

For informal enquiries about this job contact James Thomas, Chemistry lead Investigator of Research Project on james.thomas@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in early July 2025. This will consist of an interview and presentation.  We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 30th June 2025. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact h.bryant@sheffield.ac.uk

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

What we offer

       ●            A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.

     ●        Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.

     ●        Generous pension scheme.

     ●        A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.

     ●        A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).

     ●        Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.

       ●            A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways

     ●        A range of generous family-friendly policies

                     o        paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies

                     o        support for those going through the menopause

                     o        paid time off and support for fertility treatment

                     o        and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.