We are seeking a Research Associate with experience in chemical kinetics and quantum chemistry to work in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield. The job requires 10% time within the Low Carbon Combustion Centre (LCCC) at The University of Sheffield for small-scale tests. The project is funded by the EU and aims to develop detailed and reduced chemical kinetic mechanisms for autoxidation of aviation fuels. For construction of chemical kinetic mechanisms you will be responsible for implementing automated and quasi-automated chemical kinetic mechanism generation methods. Quantum chemistry will be used extensively in order to calculate the rate parameters as well as the thermochemical information for the reaction steps.

The post will provide you with the opportunity to contribute to Europe’s leading facility for novel combustion and low carbon technology. The LCCC is committed to providing industry with expert research into power, fuel, energy efficiency, and, ultimately, the reduction in carbon emissions. For further details, please visit: www.sheffield.ac.uk/mecheng/lccc/home.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team within Mechanical Engineering and Chemistry alongside academic, technical, and research staff, you will be responsible for carrying out experimental testing on a unique state of the art facility looking at fuel thermal stability and deposition in gas turbine fuel systems. You will be expected to give verbal presentations on your work, write reports, and produce draft publications. In addition to your own research, you will be expected to take some responsibility for the supervision and training of postgraduate and undergraduate research students and for the day-to-day running of the laboratory.

You must hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in a relevant Engineering subject, Maths, Chemistry, or a similar area, or have equivalent experience.

This is a fixed-term post for two years to start as soon as possible.

We’re one of the best not-for-profit organisations to work for in the UK. The University’s Total Reward Package includes a competitive salary, a generous Pension Scheme and annual leave entitlement, as well as access to a range of learning and development courses to support your personal and professional development.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching, and student experience.