Characterisation PDRA

Applicants should have experience in the solution-phase synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles with control over particle size, shape and crystalline phase, and in characterising both the colloidal state of nanoparticle dispersions (e.g. dynamic light scattering, optical microscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy) and their crystalline phase (e.g. Raman spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction), with the judgement to reconcile results across techniques. Hands-on experience with in-line colloidal characterisation is desirable. Python skills for data analysis and a demonstrated interest in high-throughput experimental methods are essential.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline, and demonstrate the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team spanning chemistry, biology, physics, mechanical engineering, and computer science. The successful candidate will work in the Autonomous Materials Group under the supervision of Dr Shijing Sun and collaborate across the ARIA project teams.

Experience in bio-templated or protein-mediated mineralisation, protein¿inorganic interfaces, or functional inorganic nanomaterials (e.g. magnetic or optical) is desirable, as is prior experience of high-throughput or automated experimentation and data-driven experimental design (e.g. Bayesian optimisation). Electron microscopy and magnetometry are carried out with project collaborators; experience in preparing samples for, and interpreting, scanning or transmission electron microscopy or SQUID magnetometry is welcome but not required.