Research Assistant/Research Associate in Green Ammonia Synthesis (Fixed Term) Full-time

Postdoctoral Research Associate

A position is open for a Postdoctoral Research Associate as part of an ERC awarded project funded by UKIR at the University of Cambridge in the group Catalysis and Process Integration group led by Prof Laura Torrente.

The aim of the project is the development of catalysts for the synthesis and cracking of green ammonia with a focus on mechanism understanding of nitrogen activation and kinetics studies. The research will also involve the investigation of novel ammonia synthesis routes, including chemical looping systems.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in the synthesis and characterisation of heterogeneous catalysts and expertise in chemical reaction engineering in particular the use of flow gas-phase reactors, including a PhD in a relevant area.

Experience in reactor design and commissioning, inorganic chemistry, nitrogen activation and chemical looping would be advantageous.

The ability to work both as part of a team and independently, coupled with excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills are required.

The duties/responsibilities of this post include: developing and driving research objectives, writing up work for presentation and publication, collaborating with academic and industrial partners, assisting in the supervision of student research projects, delivering seminars and occasional talks as outlined on the Further Particulars document.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD; those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Fixed-term: until the 28th of February 2028 in the first instance, with a possibility of extension subject to sponsor agreement.

Applicants should provide a CV, including contact details of three referees and a covering letter describing their suitability for the role.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 28 February 2028 in the first instance.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Applications closing date 19th of May 2026.

Please quote reference NQ49577 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.