Research Associate reference: S-019-25-R

We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Associate to join the School of Natural Sciences at the University of Kent. If you are committed to excellence in research, this exciting opportunity may be ideal.

The ideal candidate will develop advanced computational methods to predict reaction mechanisms, photophysical properties, and the bioactive potential of 1,4-naphthoquinone-based SuFEx hybrids—targeting global health challenges such as Chagas disease and Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT). This position is dedicated exclusively to in silico research using state-of-the-art techniques, including DFT, composite methods, extended tight binding, high-level coupled-cluster and multireference methods, and advanced machine learning algorithms.

As a Research Associate you can expect to be involved in:

Contributing to the design and execution of research projects, ensuring alignment with institutional and departmental goalsOrganising, storing and writing up results and report regularly to the research group, partners and other stakeholdersCarefully planning the research activity making sure the milestones of the project are achieved within the expected timeframe.

What will you bring to the role?

A relevant postgraduate degree (Master's or PhD) or equivalent in Computational Chemistry, Theoretical Chemistry, or a related field of studyDemonstrable experience in advanced computational modelling techniques, including DFT and wavefunction-based approachesDemonstrated ability to write and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals

What we can offer in return:

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs)43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributionsCorporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health

For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent

We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number SNS-019-25.

Closing Date: 21 May 2025

Section: Research

Salary: £38,205 to £42,978 per annum