Postdoctoral Researcher in Polymer Chemistry

at  RCSI

Department: Department of Chemistry
Reporting to: Prof. Andreas Heise, Dr. Robert Murphy
Location: 123 St. Stephens Green, Dublin
Contract/Duration: 12-18 months (with potential extension)
Remuneration: €50,000-60,000 p.a. depending on level of experience
Closing Date: 25.10.2024
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SUMMARY OF POST

The Department of Chemistry at RCSI currently has a position available for a postdoctoral researcher in an EU Pathfinder project (www.polina-project.eu). The project will be carried out in the polymer chemistry group of Prof. Heise at RCSI and focus on the development of lithographic patterning techniques for polypeptides. The researcher will work closely with other members of a multidisciplinary project team within the polymer chemistry Laboratory at RCSI as well as members of the European project consortium. Applicants should have a PhD in polymer chemistry with strong experience in synthetic polymer chemistry as well as polymer characterisation. Experience in ring-opening polymerisation and characterisation of polymer networks would be beneficial.

QUALIFICATIONS – (ESSENTIAL):

§ Applicants should have a PhD in polymer chemistry.
Knowledge & Experience – (Essential):
§ Synthetic organic chemistry for monomer preparation.
§ Knowledge and expertise with ring opening polymerisation.
§ Specific skills that would enhance suitability include experience in polypeptide/N-carboxyanhydrate (NCA) polymerisation.
§ Experience with polymer networks, characterisation and imaging.
§ Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential.
Knowledge & Experience – (Desirable):
§ Experience working with Schlenk lines and/or glove box.
§ Experience in cell compatibility tests and their interpretation.
We are all too aware that imposter syndrome and the confidence gap can sometimes stop fantastic candidates putting themselves forward, so please do submit an application — we’d love to hear from you.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

RCSI make sure you have the resources you need to thrive by offering a wide range of benefits in areas including time away, finance, community, health, and well-being and insuring your financial future. Below are some additional benefits available to you as an RCSI employee:

• Minimum of 20 days annual leave, plus an additional 6.5 Privilege days
• Flexible/hybrid working options for colleagues across many roles
• Additional leave options incl. paid maternity leave, paternity/parental leave, study leave
• 7% Employer pension contribution
• Onsite gym €10 per/mth incl. classes and PT sessions
• Childcare support 20% discount at Giraffe
• Free eye test and annual flu vaccination
• TaxSaver commuter tickets and Bike to Work schemes
• A site sustainability team focusing on the environmental initiatives; Green Campus Initiative ’
• Competitively priced café and restaurant
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion forums, and network groups
• Employee assistance programme with Spectrum Life
• Learning and Development training programmes incl. LinkedIn Learning for career progression
• Discounted services incl. GP visits, 10% off dental, staff parking, mobile tariffs, Group Scheme discount on numerous brands
• Sports and social club incl. yoga, Pilates, fitness classes, Zumba, running club, social evenings, Summer BBQ
• Ticket Draws for events including; Rugby, Taste of Dublin, Dublin Horse Show, theatre, music & comedy events

Note: This job description may be subject to change to reflect the evolving requirements of the Department and RCSI. Similar vacancies that arise in the next 6 months may be filled from the pool of applicants that apply for this position. RCSI is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability or race. RCSI is committed to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across everything we do. This ensures we can all work and learn in an environment defined by dignity and respect. Eligibility to work in Ireland is a requirement of this role, Proof of eligibility documentation will be required at a later date. Under limited and specific circumstances (research/ specialist roles) RCSI may be in a position to seek a hosting agreement and/or work permits. Employees are required to undertake 6 months service in their current role before applying for other internal opportunities, unless agreed in advance by the SMT representative

§ Day to day management and delivery of the scientific work associated with the research project.
§ Prepare scientific reports and updates as required by the funder.
§ Other such duties as may be assigned from time to time.
§ Complying with statutory legislation and Department rules and requirements in furtherance of your own and general staff welfare and safety.
§ Representing the best interests of the Department/College at all time.