Research Fellow: Mechanistic studies on natural ester degradation

Organic Chemistry, Synthesis, Catalysis & Flow

Location:  

Highfield Campus

Salary:  

£32,348 to £35,333

Full Time Fixed Term for 24 months

Closing Date:  

Wednesday 16 November 2022

Interview Date:  

To be confirmed

Reference:  

2023422EB

You will contribute towards an interdisciplinary project investigating natural and synthetic ester-based fluids for applications as more sustainable insulating dielectric materials.  You will work with Profs Richard Brown and John Langley, and will be responsible for delivering organic chemical research as part of a team of researchers from the Tony Davies High Voltage Laboratory (TDHVL), the School of Chemistry and their industrial partner.

The project seeks to increase understanding of natural esters fluids as sustainable alternatives to mineral oils in electrical insulation applications. Your primary focus will be to investigate degradation of natural and synthetic ester fluids, developing an understanding of reaction pathways, and mechanisms, which will inform guidance on loading (e.g. in high voltage power transformers). The approach will combine laboratory experimental work, analytical with analytical methods to identify compounds indicative of breakdown and mechanistic analysis. You will demonstrate an interest in the investigation of reaction mechanisms, and be enthusiastic about working as part of an interdisciplinary team to address real-world problems.

You will report to the sponsor at regular meetings, produce technical reports to a professional standard, and will also be responsible for preparation of publications and presentations at conferences and project meetings.

To be successful you must have a good degree in Chemistry, a PhD or equivalent in Chemistry, or within six months of submission of your thesis, and a strong track record of academic research. Prior experience and expertise in organic chemistry, physical organic chemistry, or analytical techniques (Gas or Liquid Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry) is required. The applicants will also be responsible for day-to-day management of the project locally and will be required to liaise directly with the University supervisors, and work closely with the sponsor.

The post is funded for 24 months. For additional information please contact Professor Richard Brown (rcb1@soton.ac.uk ) by email. For examples of research from the Southampton team working on chemical research related to power transformers:

Facciotti, M.; Amaro, P. S.; Brown, R. C. D.; Lewin, P. L.; Pilgrim, J. A.; Wilson, G.; Jarman, P. N.; Fletcher, I. W., Corros. Sci. 2015, 98, 450–456.

Garcia, S. B.; Herniman, J.; Birkin, P.; Pilgrim, J.; Lewin, P.; Wilson, G.; Langley, G. J.; Brown, R. C. D. Analyst 2020, 145, 4782.

Applications will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon completion of PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

You should submit your completed online application form at https://jobs.soton.ac.uk . The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Lauren Ward (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 2750 or email recruitment@soton.ac.uk . Please quote reference 2023422EB on all correspondence. 

Further details:

We believe equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a welcoming, vibrant and successful organisation. Having a diverse workforce, inclusive of people of all ages and beliefs, from different racial, educational and social backgrounds opens up a wealth of possibilities, makes us more creative and accelerates our impact on society. We welcome applicants that value the diversity of our community and are willing to play their part in supporting the mission of inclusivity. 

Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.