Research Associate: Validation of Functional Ceramics and Glasses using AI based Materials Discovery

Overview

An exciting opportunity exists within the Ceramic and Glass group at the University of Sheffield. The post holder will work on validating AI predicted functional ceramics and glass compositions for applications as lead free piezoelectrics, high energy density ceramics and low network modifier glass compositions for packaging applications in telecommunications. The candidate will be part of a €6 million Horizon Europe project (Simulingua) aimed at developing and validating next generation AI powered materials discovery tools.

As the research associate, you will be responsible for the day to day running of the project, reporting to Profs Ian M. Reaney (lead), Derek C. Sinclair and Russell Hand. The successful applicant will collate UoS data for the consortium and produce the first draft of papers for high impact factor journals. Experimental methods will include fabrication of dielectric ceramics and glasses, electrical characterisation using impedance spectroscopy, P E loops and MW measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X ray diffraction.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Plan work effectively, including resource availability, deadlines, project milestones and overall research aims, and report to line manager(s) regularly.
• Fabricate and characterise ceramics and glass predicted by AI based materials discovery.
• Carry out laboratory experiments such as X ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.
• Liaise, coordinate and collaborate with Simulingua consortium members.
• Generate regular project update reports and presentations, delivering them at technical review meetings, seminars and conferences.
• Prioritise activities to achieve objectives agreed with supervisors and project sponsors.
• Maintain up to date knowledge of relevant literature.
• Abide by the required health and safety culture and regulations expected within the UoS and its associated laboratories.
• Guide and support UG and PG project students in their laboratory work as required.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification

• Essential: Have a good honours degree (or equivalent experience) in chemistry, physics, materials science or electrical engineering and a PhD (or close to completion) in the same fields.
• Desirable: Knowledge of advanced characterisation of functional ceramics and glasses.
• Essential: Experience in inorganic chemistry and/or ceramics, materials science and defect/crystal chemistry of oxides.
• Essential: Knowledge and experience to support delivery of the project aims, such as solid state characterisation methods (X ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermal/chemical analysis) and electrical testing (impedance spectroscopy, LCR, current voltage behaviour in capacitors, piezoelectrics).
• Desirable: Experience of managing and leading projects covering multiple aspects and stakeholders (e.g. academic & industry).
• Essential: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
• Essential: Commitment to health and safety, good understanding of industry health and safety procedures including experience carrying out and documenting risk assessments and COSHH assessments.
• Desirable: Ability to provide guidance and support to research and project students.

Benefits

• Minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• Variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g. Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond.
• Commitment to development: access to learning and mentoring schemes integrated with Academic Career Pathways.
• Family friendly policies:
  • Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
  • Access to menopause support in the workplace
  • Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

Further Information

• Grade: 7
• Salary: £38,784 - £41,064 per annum
• Work arrangement: Full time
• Duration: Fixed term for 2 years
• Line manager: Sheffield project lead

EEO Statement

We are a Disability Confident Leader.