Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry Part-time NEW

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry

The McCulloch Research Group in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Oxford is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate in Polymer Chemistry to join an internationally recognised programme in organic semiconducting materials. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of next-generation conjugated polymers and small molecules for applications in organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs), organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), photovoltaics, photodetectors, photocatalysis, and bioelectronics. Working within a multidisciplinary team, the successful candidate will investigate the relationships between molecular structure, thin-film morphology, and device performance, with the aim of establishing new molecular design strategies for high-performance organic electronic materials.

This post is fixed term for 12 months.

About the Project

The project focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel conjugated semiconducting polymers using modern synthetic methodologies. The successful candidate will contribute to developing advanced materials for organic electronics by combining synthetic chemistry with materials science and device engineering. Research activities will include:

• Design and synthesis of conjugated polymers and semiconducting small molecules
• Polymer synthesis using transition-metal-catalysed cross-coupling methodologies
• Purification and structural characterisation of organic semiconductors
• Thin-film fabrication and materials characterisation
• Investigation of structure-property-performance relationships
• Collaboration with researchers working on device fabrication and electrical characterisation
• Preparation of manuscripts for publication in leading international journals
• Presentation of research findings at conferences and scientific meetings

The successful candidate will also have opportunities to contribute to new research proposals, collaborate with international partners, and participate in the vibrant research environment of the Department of Chemistry.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in Organic Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Materials Chemistry, or a closely related discipline. Essential requirements include:

• Expertise in organic and polymer synthesis
• Experience with transition-metal-catalysed carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions (e.g. Stille, Suzuki, or related cross-coupling methodologies)
• A strong publication record appropriate to career stage
• Excellent experimental, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research team
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English
• Experience in conjugated polymers, organic semiconductors, or organic electronic materials would be highly advantageous.

About the McCulloch Group

The McCulloch Research Group is internationally recognised for pioneering research in conjugated polymers and organic electronic materials. The group develops innovative molecular design strategies for semiconducting polymers used in organic electronics, bioelectronics, and sustainable energy technologies. Researchers benefit from access to world-class synthetic, analytical, and device fabrication facilities within one of the world's leading chemistry departments.

How to Apply

The deadline for applications is 12 noon on 17th July 2026. Applicants will be required to upload:

• A curriculum vitae (CV)
• A supporting statement explaining how they meet the selection criteria
• Details of two academic referees

For informal enquiries about the scientific aspects of the position, please contact: iain.mcculloch@chem.ox.ac.uk

The University of Oxford is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates from all backgrounds.