Research Fellow (111233-0126)

University of Warwick – Chemistry

Position Type: Fixed Term

Duration: 2 Year Fixed Term Contract

About the Role

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Adrian Chaplin at a.b.chaplin@warwick.ac.uk

Applications are invited for a research fellow to work on a Leverhulme Trust funded project grant entitled “Synthesis and reactivity of elusive mononuclear gold(II) complexes” for a period of up to 24 months. This is a curiosity-led project, motivated by increasing literature speculation about the role of metalloradical intermediates in gold-mediated organic transformations.

While there is precedent for the formation of mononuclear gold(II) compounds, the handful of well-defined systems that have been described in the literature are unsuitable for the level of hypothesis testing needed to resolve this speculation and support rational catalyst development. The post requires a highly skilled co-worker to implement a systematic programme of experimental work, focused on the synthesis, characterisation and organometallic chemistry of highly reactive open-shell transition metal complexes.

About You

The successful applicant will have completed a PhD in molecular inorganic chemistry and have an established track record for innovative and effective experimental research in this field, including prior post-doctoral experience. Practical experience using techniques for the synthesis, purification, and characterisation of air- and moisture sensitive open- and closed-shell, late transition metal compounds is essential.

The successful applicant will be an excellent communicator, capable of working effectively, both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team of researchers. They will possess excellent time management skills and be highly motived to drive open projects to completion at the highest publication standards.

The fellow will be primarily based in the Chaplin group at the University of Warwick, but the project involves extensive collaboration with the Richard’s group at the Cardiff University.

For more information about the research groups involved visit: http://go.warwick.ac.uk/chaplingroup and https://profiles.cardiff.ac.uk/staff/richardse10

For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description attached as a PDF below.

About the Department

The Department of Chemistry at Warwick is a thriving community of students, academics, researchers, and support staff.

Our fundamental research pushes boundaries in all major fields of Chemistry. Through collaborations with the wider science community and industry, our applied work aims to tackle huge global issues from antimicrobial resistance, to solar energy harvesting, and sustainable materials.

We provide an inclusive, vibrant and friendly environment where our students have dedicated support to explore their passion for chemistry.

Athena SWAN Silver Award

We are committed to supporting staff to achieve their potential. Both the Department of Chemistry and the University of Warwick hold Athena SWAN silver awards, a national initiative that recognises the advancement of gender equality, representation, progression, and success for all in academia.

We provide a welcoming and inclusive working and learning environment, recognising that everyone is different in a variety of visible and non-visible ways, and that those differences are to be recognised, respected, and valued. We welcome applications from individuals who identify with any of the protected characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010. We are supportive of staff with caring responsibilities.

About the University

We are a world-leading research-intensive university founded in 1965. We are ranked 106th in the world and 8th in the UK.* Additionally, 92% of our research is rated world-leading or internationally excellent.**

Find out more about us at warwick.ac.uk/about/.

* World University Ranking 2024, Guardian University Guide 2025

** Research Excellence Framework 2021

How to Apply

CLOSING DEADLINE: Wednesday 4th February 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)

To apply, please click "Apply" below and submit an application form by the closing deadline. You will be asked to include a CV and a cover letter.The cover letter and CV should not exceed 2 pages. each

Your CV should include:

• A CV setting out your career history, with key responsibilities and achievements. Please ensure your CV includes your most up to date qualifications and a summary of your education to date.

Your cover letter should explain:

• A supporting statement explaining how you consider your personal skills, qualities and experience provide evidence and examples of your suitability for the role, with particular reference to demonstrating how you meet the Person Specification detailing the essential criteria and any desirable criteria that you may fulfil.
• Your motivations for applying to the role.
• Using examples, how you meet the essential and desirable criteria detailed in the job description (PDF attached below).

All essential criteria must be met by candidates who are invited to interview.

You are welcome to include details of any career breaks (e.g. parental leave, caring responsibilities, sick leave).

• Interview Date: To be confirmed
• Start Date: 1st April 2026

Please note application forms must be submitted before the stated deadline - you will not be able to submit after 23:55 (even if you opened the form earlier). Only applications submitted via our official careers portal (warwick-careers.tal.net) will be considered.

What we Offer

We provide a comprehensive range of benefits, including:

• An attractive pension scheme.
• 30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
• Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
• Onsite childcare facilities.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

We recognise the importance of a healthy work/life balance and offer access to flexible working arrangements. For more information, see here.

We are proud to be a Living Wage employer.