Postdoctoral Research Associate in Transient Optical Spectroscopy of Temperature Dependent Photocatalysts Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Transient Optical Spectroscopy of Temperature Dependent Photocatalysts

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work under the supervision of Professor James Durrant in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Oxford.

About the Role:

The successful candidate will join the Durrant Group, contributing to research into photocatalytic systems for the sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. The position forms part of a UKRI-funded project investigating solar-driven CO₂ capture and conversion, with a focus on developing and understanding photocatalytic systems under realistic operating conditions.

The research will involve the development and investigation of (photo)catalytic systems through advanced catalyst design, operando characterisation and mechanistic analysis. You will contribute to establishing structure–activity relationships and identifying the key factors governing catalytic performance, selectivity and stability.

Working as part of a collaborative research team, you will undertake experimental research, develop and apply scientific techniques, analyse research findings and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. You will also be expected to support the supervision of research students, contribute to research proposals and assist with external collaborations.

This is a full-time (37.5 hours per week), fixed-term post for up to 12 months, based in the Physical and Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, South Parks Road, Oxford. Due to the laboratory-based nature of the research, the post requires on-site working.

Find out more about Professor Durrant's research group at:

https://www.chem.ox.ac.uk/people/james-durrant

About You:

You will hold a PhD in Chemistry, Physics or a related area (or be close to completion) prior to taking up the appointment. You will have expertise in the development and investigation of (photo)catalytic systems under realistic operating conditions, including advanced catalyst design, operando characterisation and mechanistic analysis. Experience in the fabrication of relevant photocatalysts is also essential.

You will be able to demonstrate competence and success in sustainable energy research, with a strong understanding of the wider research context and evidence of independent intellectual and practical contributions to previous research projects. A strong publication record, or papers in press, demonstrating your research achievements is also required.

You will be a motivated, organised and proactive researcher, able to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research environment. Excellent communication skills, a willingness to develop new experimental techniques and the ability to communicate research findings clearly are essential.

You will also be able to work supportively with other members of the research group, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and skills and providing guidance to junior colleagues where appropriate. Experience of independently managing a discrete area of a research project or contributing to the preparation of research articles for publication would be advantageous.

Application process:

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. As part of your application, you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV. Your supporting statement must explain how you meet each of the selection criteria for the post, using clear examples drawn from skills and experience.

Please note that certificates, references and research papers should not be provided at this stage.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, 19 November 2026, UK time. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.

The University of Oxford and The Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and ethnic minority candidates, who are under-represented in Chemistry research posts in Oxford.