Postdoc position on 'green' polymer synthesis

Centre for Synthesis & Chemical Biology, University College Dublin

Organisation/Company Centre for Synthesis & Chemical Biology, University College Dublin Department School of Chemistry & Chemical Biology Research Field Chemistry » Organic chemistry Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Ireland Application Deadline 28 Feb 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Dublin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Apr 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description
We are inviting applications for one excellent PhD graduate to work within a project on ‘green’ methods of polymer synthesis for energy applications. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and the contact details for at least three academic referees, and should be sent by email to Dr. Demetra Achilleos (demetra.achilleos@ucd.ie ). Salary range: €46,305 − €52,862 per annum (appointment on the above range will be dependent on qualifications and experience). The appointments will be initially for one year with the potential of extension up to three years.

This project is suitable for a chemist, material scientist, and/or chemical engineer with expertise in polymer synthesis/chemistry.

This is a research focused role, where you will conduct a specified programme of research supported by research training and development under the supervision and direction of a Principal Investigator.

The primary purpose of the role is to further develop your research skills and competences, including the processes of publication in peer-reviewed academic publications, the development of funding proposals, the mentorship of graduate students along with the opportunity to develop your skills in research led teaching.

Project Specific Duties

Design/development of advanced polymer structures.

Polymer synthesis (i.e., ATRP, emulsion polymerization).

Additive manufacturing.

Characterization of polymeric materials (i.e., NMR, GPC, TEM, etc.).

Assist the maintenance of equipment relevant to the research.

Prepare presentations, reports and proposals for continuation and progression of the project.

Collect quotations for purchasing new equipment.

Attend relevant workshops and meetings as necessary.

Comply with UCD policies, including financial regulations, safety policy, GDPR, EDI, confidentiality, Intellectual Property (IP) and Data management policies.

Maintain accurate and complete records of all findings, and ensure that the data will be FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Re-usable).

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Conduct a specified programme of research and scholarship under the supervision and direction of your Principal Investigator.

Engage in appropriate training and professional development opportunities as required by your Principal Investigator, your School or Institute, or the University.

Engage in the dissemination of the results of the research in which you are engaged as directed by and with the support of and under the supervision of your Principal Investigator.

Engage in the wider research and scholarly activities of your research group, School and Institute.

Mentor and assist, as appropriate and as directed, the research graduate students in your group, School and Institute.

Carry out administrative work associated with your programme of research.

Selection Criteria
Mandatory

PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering.

Demonstrated extensive experience in polymer synthesis (i.e., ATRP, emulsion polymerization, and/or additive manufacturing).

Evidence of extensive experience in the synthesis and advanced structural/spectroscopic characterization of polymeric materials (i.e., NMR, GPC etc).

A demonstrated commitment to research and high-impact publications.

An understanding of the operational requirements for a successful research project.

Evidence of research activity (publications, conference presentations, awards) and future scholarly output (working papers, research proposals, and ability to outline a research project).

Excellent Communication Skills (Oral, Written , Presentation etc).

Excellent Organisational, time management, and administrative skills including a proven ability to work to deadlines.

Candidates must demonstrate an awareness of equality, diversity and inclusion agenda.

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