Research Associate in Chemical Etching and Surface Chemistry

Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering

Full or Part Time (please express your preference at the time of application), Fixed term for 12 months.

Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University. 

Here’s more about the role and what we’re looking for:

The project involves studying redox reactions and electron transfers of a chemical etchant with titanium alloys surfaces, and the characterisation of ions, cations and complexes involved in these oxidation and reduction reactions.

The successful candidate must be interested in applying their existing skillset to the understanding of etching mechanisms. Measurement and analytical techniques (e.g., pH meters, spectrometry, ion chromatography) or titrations will be used in species identification and quantification.

The results obtained will be used to support the development of improved etching processes to tailor surface chemistry in titanium alloys.

Key Requirements:

The candidate needs to have extensive experience in:

• Redox reactions, and how to determine oxidate states, as well as electron transfer.
• Demonstrated experience using inorganic chemicals and metals for chemical etching or electrochemistry reactions.
• Experience working with modelling tools to visualise and quantify redox reactions.
• Experience of acquiring and analysing data derived from analytical techniques.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Have a PhD degree (or close to completion) in a related subject or equivalent experience

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Carmen Torres-Sánchez, Principal Investigator by email at c.torres@lboro.ac.uk or by telephone on +44 (0) 1509 227 518

For more information refer to theJob Description and Person Specification.

Closing Date:  17 March 2025

Interview Date: week commencing 24 March 2025

Our Benefits

• Generous annual leave allowance up to 44 days (inclusive of Bank Holidays & University closure days)
• Competitive pension schemes
• A range of childcare support initiatives and benefits including childcare vouchers; on-site university nursery (with salary sacrifice scheme); and holiday play schemes.
• We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies.
• BUPA Cash Plan (100 scheme)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan scheme
• On campus parking with charging points for electric vehicles
• Fantastic range of sports facilities and preferential membership packages available

Loughborough University is committed to achieving equality and valuing diversity in all aspects of employment and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.