Innovation Fellow in Chemical Science

Contract: indefinite with end date

The Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University is seeking an outstanding and ambitious candidate for the post of Innovation Fellow in chemical sciences to work on the Greater Innovation for Smarter Materials Optimisation (GISMO project). The Innovation Fellow role is part of the £4.4m Greater Innovation for Smarter Materials Optimisation (GISMO) Project. GISMO is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund and will engage over 250 innovative SMEs in the Cheshire and Warrington in the chemicals, aerospace, automotive, energy, applied healthcare, and life sciences sectors; solving industry-driven challenges through innovations in ‘smart’ materials.

This position involves working with companies in the Cheshire and Warrington area to analyse industry problems, find and develop solutions that improve existing product or process performance, and/or enable the development of entirely new materials that make possible new processes or products. Another key theme will be the development of chemical processes which can underpin the circular economy in hydrogen: as fuels and reagents for chemical manufacture.

Whilst the Innovation Fellow is expected to work across a range of industrial sectors, it is anticipated that there will be a strong focus on health and life science, chemical and polymer sciences.

Qualifications and Experience

You should have, or expect to have, a PhD in physics, chemistry (with some expertise in synthetic chemistry) or polymeric materials, biochemistry or chemically-related sciences, coupled with experience of microbiology and of the use of plasma technology for thin film coating. The successful candidate will work across a number of laboratories and learn new skills, but we would anticipate previous involvement of working with industry on short and extended projects, a strong background in the use of analytical techniques (force microscopies, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and of employing coating technologies such as plasma polymerisation. The successful candidate will show a strong interest in collaborating with end users in industry, and experience in this area although not essential is desirable. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate their experience of industry relevant research; candidates without industry experience are still encouraged to apply, they should indicate at the application how they envisage working with industry partners. 

You will join us on an indefinite contract however, the role remains contingent on external funding which, at this time is for 12 months with possible extension to 15 months subject to funding body approval.

Lancaster University

Lancaster University is among the best in the UK. Top 10 in three main league tables, we also have a TEF Gold rating for teaching and we're highly ranked in international league tables such as the QS World Rankings. We're proud to have been named International University of the Year by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020. Lancaster is also ranked 3rd in the UK for graduate-level employment in the Complete University Guide 2020. From the facilities you need on campus, to the historic city on your doorstep, Lancaster is made for learning.

We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.