Research Associate \ Research Assistant in electrochemical nitrogen reduction to ammonia
Publicerad 2024-10-21
This post is based in the Department of Materials at Imperial College London. The post holder will be responsible for the research and discovery of new electrocatalytic systems (besides lithium) capable of reducing nitrogen to ammonia selectively, toward improved material sustainability and energy efficiency. The candidate will be expected to have strong experience in non-aqueous electrochemistry, synthesis and characterisation of electrolyte components, and SEI characterisation, and will also be expected to collaborate closely with other researchers at Imperial and beyond. A deep understanding of the unique issues faced in electrochemical nitrogen, as well as the ones faced in beyond-Li batteries, and consequently how to tailor electrochemical interfaces is vital for this role. By combining synthesis techniques and electrolyte developments, the research team hopes to uncover the factors that make a good electrochemical nitrogen reduction catalyst beyond lithium, from its inherent energetics to interfacial behaviour.
Develop new electrolytes for the lithium-mediated nitrogen reduction reaction, characterise their properties (species activities, gas solubility/diffusivity) and performance in ammonia synthesis.Investigate new chemistries beyond lithium for nitrogen reduction to ammonia: synthesise new electrolytic systems based on calcium or magnesium and investigate their potential in achieving selective nitrogen reduction.Develop workflows to characterise the SEI of the above systems via quantitative chemical titration.Work well within a dynamic group of students and Research Associates.Collaborate with academic colleagues at Imperial and beyond.Present experimental findings to the immediate research group and colleagues on a regular basis.Write articles for publication and present papers/posters at national and international conferences as directed by the head of laboratory.Provide general assistance from time-to-time with other research related activities.Write progress reports and prepare results for publication and dissemination via journals, presentations and the web.Oversee, supervise and train, in association with the head of laboratory, undergraduate and postgraduate students.Assist in the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate research students and research assistants as requiredTo comply with the College, Division, and Unit safety practices and to attend courses on safety when appropriateAny other duties as may be deemed reasonable by Head of group as well as Head of Division/Department/SectionAssist with the management of the laboratory.Participate in maintaining a safe, clean and healthy laboratory working environment. For Research Associate level, a PhD (or equivalent) in materials science, nanoscience, chemical engineering, chemistry or physics or related discipline.For Research Assistant level, a first degree (or equivalent) or a Masters (or equivalent) in materials science, nanoscience, chemical engineering, chemistry or physics or related discipline.Extensive experience and knowledge of electrochemical Lithium-Mediated Nitrogen reductionExtensive experience and knowledge of SEI formation principles and electrolyte engineeringExperience in using chemical titrations to probe SEI compositionExperience working in a gloveboxExtensive experience using a wide range of electrochemical techniques, such as Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetryExperience in the characterisation of electrolytes (solvation structure, gas solubility, stability, …)Experience in chemical synthesisA proven publication track record, commensurate with career stageHealth and SafetyGeneral knowledge of Research GovernanceAbility to design, perform and analyse experimental data
The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.Grow your career: Gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading as well as opportunities for promotion and progressionSector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).We provide a wide-ranging that includes resources, tools and networks to promote a positive working environment.Pensions – excellent employer contributionsSeason Ticket loan – interest free.Childcare facilities – Early Years Education CentreChildcare vouchers – salary sacrifice scheme.Staff accommodationOur flagship sports centre and gym in South Kensington Campus
