Research Assistant/Research Associate in Gas-Solid Absorption (Fixed Term)

A position is open for a Postdoctoral Research Associate as part of an ERC awarded project funded by UKIR at the University of Cambridge in the group Catalysis and Process Integration group led by Prof Laura Torrente (www.capi.ceb.cam.ac.uk).

The successful candidate will have a strong background in sorption processes (i.e. absorption or adsorption), kinetic studies and characterization of materials, including a PhD in a relevant area.

Knowledge of process design as well as the design, commissioning and use of flow systems will be advantageous.

The overall aim of the project is the development of novel green ammonia processes powered by renewable energy and able to cope with its intermittency nature.

The position will focus on the study of absorption for the separation of ammonia at relatively low partial pressures. The research will focus on the mechanism and kinetics of ammonia on metal halides as well as their decomposition.

The ability to work both as part of a team and independently, coupled with excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills are required.

The duties/responsibilities of this post include:

• developing and driving research objectives
• writing up work for presentation and publication
• collaborating with academic and industrial partners
• assisting in the supervision of student research projects
• delivering seminars and occasional talks as outlined on the Further Particulars document.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD; those without a PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded

Fixed-term: until the 28th of February 2028 in the first instance, with a possibility of extension subject to sponsor agreement.

Applicants should provide a CV, including contact details of three referees and a covering letter describing their suitability for the role.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 28 February 2028 in the first instance.

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

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Applications closing date 19th of May 2026.

Please quote reference NQ49576 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Key information

Department/location

Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology

Salary

£33,002-£46,049

Reference

NQ49576

Category

Research

Date published

29 April 2026

Closing date

19 May 2026