Research Fellow in Organic Chemistry

Fixed Term Contract for 24 months

Location: Shrivenham, Oxfordshire

Role Description

The Centre for Defence Chemistry has been working on propellants, explosives and pyrotechnic research for decades. We are interested in all aspects of defence manufacturing, vulnerability, combustion, and life assessment of energetic materials. We have an explosive license to manufacture of explosives, propellants and pyrotechnics, a dedicated hazard testing facility and an explosive range.

About the Role

This role will contribute to research in cutting edge organic synthesis of energetic materials. This project is in collaboration with the University of Warwick and the University of Birmingham.

You will be responsible for:

• The development of a novel synthetic method towards nitrocellulose (NC)
• Fully characterising the materials prepared (including physical, chemical, hazard and performance characterisation)
• Identifying the key property(ies) of cellulose for optimum characteristics of NC
• Establishing and maintain an international reputation in areas which are related to energetic materials
• Working closely with colleagues and making effective use of the facilities

About You

You will have a PhD in a field of science related to the area.  You will have experience of synthetic chemistry and evidence of working across discipline boundaries to deliver results.  With a strong track record of collaboration, you will have an understanding of the contemporary challenges facing the defence sector in the UK and further afield. 

Experience of testing energetic materials and knowledge of Health and Safety Legislation as it relates to the role is desirable. 

The successful applicant will require security clearance.

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here .

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here .

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are also committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here . 

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jeff Pons at j.pons@cranfield.ac.uk .