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The Gaunt group are looking for a passionate and creative scientist to join our team as a research assistant in synthetic organic chemistry in the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will join the dynamic and collaborative research group of Professor Matthew Gaunt, working at the forefront of cutting-edge synthetic methodologies and their applications.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance. The position is available from October 2024.

Position overview

As a research assistant in this post, you will be involved in designing and executing novel and innovative catalytic strategies for the development of new transformations that are applicable to small and complex molecules alike. The invention of new transformations is essential to the synthesis of molecules that can help with a wider understanding of biological systems.

As synthetic chemists, we are uniquely placed to leverage our expertise in small molecule catalytic systems to design reactions that control structure and function at a molecular level in molecules ranging from bioactive small molecules through to complex nucleic acids.

We are looking for synthetic organic chemists who are interested in taking on new challenges. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art instrumentation, such as high throughput experimentation, and collaborate with experts in the field.

Qualifications

We are looking for passionate and creative scientists to work as part of a collaborative team. Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills are required to ensure success in liaising with a large and diverse research team:

  • A Masters Degree in Chemistry or a related field.
  • Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry.
  • Demonstrated record of high-quality research.

Equal Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Criteria

In the Gaunt Group we are committed to providing a welcoming and supportive space for all. We are a sociable group and productively work to create an environment where everyone is free to be themselves.

All members are encouraged to contribute to our scientific community where the sharing of knowledge and development of ideas forms the foundations of the laboratory.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Our research group values and prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we actively seek candidates who can contribute to these goals.

Opportunities within Gaunt Group

As well as the research areas related to the post, as a member of the Gaunt group, you will also be exposed to a wide range of chemistry spanning photoredox catalysis, metal-catalyzed C-H activation, high throughput experimentation, late-stage functionalization, and medicinal chemistry.

We collaborate widely with the pharmaceutical industry, as well as academic groups in chemical biology, chemical engineering, and data science. We have an excellent structure for the continued education of our group members and offer teaching and mentoring opportunities to enhance leadership skills.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Application process

To apply, please submit the following documents:

  • Cover letter detailing your research experience and interest in the position.
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) with a list of publications.
  • A brief research statement outlining your past research accomplishments and future research interests.
  • Contact information for three references.

Please quote reference MA42551 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.