The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. 

Our culture empowers people to achieve this aim and to collectively, and individually, make a real difference.  

The role

We are currently seeking a highly motivated research associate to join the University of Surrey to join Dr Patrick Sears’ research group. The successful applicant will help technically lead a team under the guidance of Patrick Sears(PI) as well as conducting research in high resolution liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and ambient ionisation mass spectrometry. 

The project will include experimental work in small molecule analysis in both the defence and pharmaceutical industries but will also work alongside team members working on a range of topics including explosives, pesticides and analytes of emerging environmental concern 

About you

The post is ideally suited for someone with a keen interest in mass spectrometry. 

The successful candidate will have a degree level chemistry qualification and substantial experience of laboratory work.  They must be able to work safely in a chemistry laboratory with awareness of writing risk assessments and COSHH documentation.  They must be able to work in a fast-paced environment, and it is essential that they have detailed experience in mass spectrometry and specifically ambient ionisation mass spectrometry (preferably using an atmospheric solids analysis probe system). An understanding of numerical data analysis (including chemometric techniques) will be an advantage as will experience of writing scientific reports. 

Key responsibilities

• Conducting individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator
• Writing and publishing research articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Presenting research findings at conferences and seminars
• Mentoring and training undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Leading lab meetings and other academic activities.

Essential requirements

• Degree in a relevant field such as Chemistry
• Substantial laboratory experience in practical application of liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and ambient ionisation mass spectrometry
• Extensive experience in the development of LC-MS assays 
• Previous history of analysing energetic and pharmaceutical materials
• Demonstrated ability to safely conduct independent research activities
• Good communication skill in English.

Preferred qualifications

• A strong track record in publishing original research articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Experience in high resolution mass spectrometry
• Experience in gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
• Experience in mass spectrometry data analysis and chemometric techniques
• Ability to work as an independent researcher within an interdisciplinary team with diverse expertise, while contributing to collaborative projects and communicating effectively with team members.

How to apply

Please apply via the University website, ensuring that you attach a copy of your CV and a covering letter.

There will be an online interview in the first week of July with the aim to start by the beginning of August

For informal inquiries please contact the Principal Investigator, Dr Patrick Sears p.sears@surrey.ac.uk

Further details

Job Description