We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Kent. If you are committed to excellence in research, this exciting opportunity may be ideal.
The ideal candidate will develop advanced computational methods to predict reaction mechanisms, photophysical properties, and the bioactive potential of 1,4-naphthoquinone-based SuFEx hybrids—targeting global health challenges such as Chagas disease and Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT). This position is dedicated exclusively to in silico research using state-of-the-art techniques, including DFT, composite methods, extended tight binding, high-level coupled-cluster and multireference methods, and advanced machine learning algorithms.
As a Research Associate you can expect to be involved in:
* Contributing to the design and execution of research projects, ensuring alignment with institutional and departmental goals
* Organising, storing and writing up results and report regularly to the research group, partners and other stakeholders
* Carefully planning the research activity making sure the milestones of the project are achieved within the expected timeframe.
What will you bring to the role?
* A relevant postgraduate degree (Master's or PhD) or equivalent in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, or a related field of study
* Demonstrable experience in advanced computational modelling techniques, including DFT and wavefunction-based approaches
* Demonstrated ability to write and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals
What we can offer in return:
As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:
* Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)
* 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
* Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
* Corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health