Research Fellow in Analytical Chemistry (Microfluidic Sensors)

University of Southampton - Mechanical Engineering

Location: Southampton
Salary: £36,636 to £37,694 per annum
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract
Placed On: 14th April 2026
Closes: 5th May 2026
Job Ref: 3385926DA

We are seeking to appoint a new Research Fellow to join the School of Engineering at the University of Southampton, UK. This position is on a fixed term basis till the end of February 2027.

This position focuses on the development of innovative microfluidic-based sensors for continuous, in-situ chemical and biochemical analysis.

About the Role:

The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team dedicated to designing and developing state-of-the-art microfluidic sensors. These sensors aim to address critical challenges in miniaturised chemical and biochemical assay and analysis, with applications spanning environmental monitoring and beyond. The position offers a rich mix of research, laboratory work, field testing in collaboration with industrial partners, and academic writing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop chemical and biochemical assays and analyses, conduct comprehensive laboratory experiments, data analysis and reporting.
• Design, develop, and test microfluidic devices for miniaturised chemical and biochemical sensing.
• Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to integrate sensor technology into broader systems.
• Participate in the planning and execution of in situ fieldwork, which includes travel.
• Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.

Requirements:

• PhD or equivalent qualifications and experience in Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Strong and proven record in academic writing and publication in recognised journals.
• Extensive laboratory experience with a hands-on approach to chemical and biochemical assays and analysis.
• Proficiency in a wide range of analytical chemistry techniques and methodologies.
• Ability to travel or drive to various locations for in situ work as required.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to work both independently and as an effective member of a multidisciplinary team.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience in microfluidic device design and fabrication.
• Knowledge of sensor integration and data analysis.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and innovation.

Training and personal development opportunities will be available and encouraged as part of the role. There will be opportunities for travel within the UK and further afield for collaborative work and results dissemination.

The University of Southampton is in the top 1% of world universities and the top 10 of the UK’s research-intensive universities. We are committed to sustainability and being a globally responsible university, with the principles of sustainability embedded into all aspects of our individual and collective work, in our business planning, policy-making, and professional activities.

For informal enquiries about the position, please contact Prof Xize Niu (email: x.niu@soton.ac.uk).