Department
Chemistry
Salary
37,694 - 46,049 per year
Grade
Grade 6
Contract status
Fixed term
Hours of work
Full-time
Based at
University of York campus
Interview date
27 April 2026
Posted Date
26/03/2026
Apply by
09/04/2026
Job Reference
14889
Documents
- Job Description 14889.pdf (PDF, 431.86kb)
Role Description
Department
A full-time two-year post-doctoral research associate position in synthetic chemistry is available, as part of a multidisciplinary project centred on plant natural product biosynthesis. Better understanding of how plants form complex natural products is expected to lead to the generation of novel biocatalysts and routes to bioactive compounds. A major project aim is to discover the metabolic origins to chiral bioactive alkaloids and terpenoids, through discovery and characterisation of the biosynthetic enzymes and pathway intermediates.
The project is led by Dr Benjamin Lichman, a UKRI Future Leader Fellow at the Centre for Novel Agricultural Products, Department of Biology, working in close collaboration with the groups of Dr Will Unsworth and Prof Gideon Grogan in the Department of Chemistry. This post will be based in the lab of Dr Will Unsworth. The successful applicant will work as part of a multidisciplinary team that will include the three PIs, plus a biochemist post-doctoral researchers working in the Biology Department, a synthetic chemist post-doctoral researcher (i.e. this role) and a biology research technician.
Applications are sought from individuals with a PhD in chemistry, biochemistry or a similar subject. Expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and the analysis and structural determination of small organic molecules is essential; experience with the chromatographic separation of product mixtures and experience of HPLC analysis are desirable. This appointment will therefore suit a candidate with strong training in chemical synthesis and analysis, with experience in natural products and biosynthesis useful, but not essential.
The Department of Chemistry is one of the UK's leading Chemistry departments and we are renowned internationally for our research. We have been recognised consistently for our family-friendly policies and are proud of our Athena SWAN Gold Award.
We strive to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, flourish, and excel. We aim to ensure that there is a supportive and egalitarian culture across all staff groups and levels. We promote good practice and a strong culture of equality in higher education. Further information can be found within this brief and on our website.
Role
- To conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues and to contribute to the production of research
- To assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and the development of proposals for independent or collaborative research projects
Skills, Experience & Qualification Needed
- First degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or relevant subject
- PhD in chemistry, or equivalent experience
- Extensive skills in synthetic organic chemistry and analysis
- Extensive experience of the analysis of small organic molecules using NMR spectroscopy
- Experience of carrying out both independent and collaborative research
- Experience of writing up research work for publication
- Commitment to and understanding of Equality and Diversity Issues
Interview date: Monday, 27th April 2026
For informal enquiries: please contact Dr Will Unsworth ([Confidential Information]) and Dr Benjamin Licham ([HIDDEN TEXT])
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive a place where we can ALL be ourselves.
We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.
We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork
As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York's commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.
