Job Specifications
About The Role
For informal enquiries, please contact Fredrik Schaufelberger (Assistant Professor) at fredrik.schaufelberger@warwick.ac.uk.
The Schaufelberger group at University of Warwick studies the use of mechanically interlocked molecules for applications in biomedicine and for creation of stimuli-responsive biomaterials. This project concerns development of new interlocked materials for the creation of tissue engineering scaffold and “smart” regenerative medicine solutions.
The position involves synthesis of mechanically interlocked materials and polymers using state-of-the-art techniques, as well as integration of these materials with biological systems (i.e. through in vitro cell culture). The role additionally includes experimental design, data analysis and organization, as well as reporting of results in a scholarly way. Furthermore, the PDRA is expected to assist supervision of junior group members, handling of practical group routines, and provide some technical assistance to the group in activities related to research.
About You
For this role, you would need the following:
A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline.
Well-documented international research expertise in supramolecular chemistry, polymer chemistry or biomaterials science.
Strong collaborative abilities and evidence of being able to work in a team.
Being able to work independently, taking initiative and being able to plan ahead.
Good oral and written English communication skills
Experience with research supervision, i.e. of undergraduate students
Awareness of diversity and equal opportunity issues.
Subject Specific Qualifications
Experience in working with mechanically interlocked molecules or materials
Experience with multistep organic synthesis
Experience with polymer development for regenerative medicine
For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description attached as a PDF below.
PhD Status
If you are near submission of your PhD, or have not yet had it conferred, any offers of employment will be made at Research Assistant level, at the highest spinal point of pay grade 5 (£34,610 per annum).
Upon receipt of evidence confirming the successful award of your PhD, you will be promoted to Research Fellow, at the lowest spinal point of grade 6 (£35,608 per annum).
About The Department
The Department of Chemistry at Warwick is a thriving community of students, academics, researchers, and support staff.
Our fundamental research pushes boundaries in all major fields of Chemistry. Through collaborations with the wider science community and industry, our applied work aims to tackle huge global issues from antimicrobial resistance, to solar energy harvesting, and sustainable materials.
We provide an inclusive, vibrant and friendly environment where our students have dedicated support to explore their passion for chemistry.
Athena SWAN Silver Award
We are committed to supporting staff to achieve their potential. Both the Department of Chemistry and the University of Warwick hold Athena SWAN silver awards, a national initiative that recognises the advancement of gender equality, representation, progression, and success for all in academia. We provide a welcoming and inclusive working and learning environment, recognising that everyone is different in a variety of visible and non-visible ways, and that those differences are to be recognised, respected, and valued. We welcome applications from individuals who identify with any of the protected characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010. We are supportive of staff with caring responsibilities.
About The University
We are a world-leading research-intensive university founded in 1965. We are ranked 106th in the world and 8th in the UK.* Additionally, 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent.**
Find out more about us at warwick.ac.uk/about/.
World University Ranking 2024, Guardian University Guide 2025
Research Excellence Framework 2021
How to Apply
CLOSING DEADLINE: Sunday 25th January 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)
To apply, please click "Apply" below and submit an application form by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and a cover letter.
Your CV Should Include
Your education and employment history (including your most recent employment).
Any other relevant experience (e.g. volunteering, extracurricular, etc.).
Your Cover Letter Should Explain
Your motivations for applying to the role.
Using examples, how you meet the essential and desirable criteria detailed in the job description (PDF attached below).
All essential criteria must be met by candidates who are invited to interview.
You are welcome to include details of any career breaks (e.g. parental leave, caring responsibilities, sick leave).
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Start Date: To be confirmed
Please note application forms must be submitted
About the Company
We're a world-leading university with the highest academic and research standards. But we're not letting the story end there. That's because we're a place of possibility. We're always looking for new ways to make things happen. And our students, alumni and staff are consistently making an impact - the kind that changes lives, whether close to home or on a global scale. It's the achievements of our people that help explain why our levels of research excellence and scholarship are recognised internationally. It's a prime attra...
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