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About the University of Liverpool – A Global Hub for Scientific Excellence
The University of Liverpool stands at the forefront of scientific discovery, combining a proud heritage of groundbreaking research with a vibrant, forward‑thinking community. Our Faculty of Science and Engineering, and specifically the School of Physical Sciences, has earned an international reputation for pioneering work in chemistry, materials science, and computational innovation. Within this dynamic environment, the Department of Chemistry is home to world‑renowned scientists, including Royal Society Research Professor Andrew I. Cooper FRS, whose visionary leadership drives the convergence of chemistry, robotics, and data science.
As a remote‑friendly institution, we champion flexible work models that empower talent worldwide to contribute to world‑changing research without geographic constraints. Whether you are based in the UK, Europe, or across the globe, you will be fully integrated into our collaborative networks, benefiting from state‑of‑the‑art virtual labs, regular video‑conferences, and a culture that values both scientific rigor and creativity.
Position Overview – Postdoctoral Research Associate in Cheminformatics & Automation
We are seeking a motivated, innovative, and interdisciplinary scientist to join Professor Cooper’s research group as a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This two‑year, full‑time appointment (with the possibility of extension) will focus on developing and deploying computational tools that enable autonomous chemical synthesis. By integrating cheminformatics, machine learning, and robotic automation, you will help shape the next generation of “self‑driving” laboratories that can design, execute, and analyze experiments with minimal human intervention.
The role is classified as Grade 7 (or Grade 6 for candidates awaiting formal confirmation of their PhD award) with a competitive salary range of £39,105 – £45,163 per annum, alongside a comprehensive benefits package. While the primary work will be conducted remotely, you will occasionally engage with the Materials Innovation Factory and the Autonomous Chemistry Laboratory via virtual tours, collaborative workshops, and in‑person meetings when feasible.
Key Responsibilities
As a central member of the Cheminformatics Automation team, you will be expected to:
- Design and implement computational pipelines that translate chemical reaction schemas into robotic execution protocols.
- Develop machine‑learning models for predicting reaction outcomes, catalyst performance, and material properties, leveraging large‑scale chemical databases.
- Integrate data analytics with experimental feedback loops to refine synthetic routes in real time.
- Collaborate closely with experimental chemists, robotic engineers, and data scientists to ensure seamless operation of the autonomous chemistry platform.
- Publish high‑impact research articles, conference papers, and pre‑prints that showcase the novelty of autonomous synthesis methodologies.
- Mentor junior team members including PhD candidates, MSc students, and research assistants, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning.
- Maintain rigorous documentation of software code, experimental protocols, and data management practices in accordance with university and funder policies.
- Present findings at internal seminars, external symposia, and industry forums to promote cross‑disciplinary collaboration.
- Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals aimed at expanding the autonomous chemistry research programme.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
To succeed in this role, candidates must demonstrate the following core credentials:
- A PhD (or imminent award) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Cheminformatics, Computational Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of materials chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, or catalysis.
- Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in cheminformatics such as Python, R, or Java, and experience with libraries like RDKit, Open Babel, or similar.
- Hands‑on experience with machine‑learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit‑learn) applied to chemical data.
- Demonstrated ability to work with high‑throughput experimental data, including data cleaning, feature extraction, and statistical analysis.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a record of publishing in peer‑reviewed journals.
- Evidence of collaborative research, ideally involving multi‑disciplinary teams that span chemistry and engineering.
- A genuine passion for autonomous research methodologies and a willingness to embrace novel, high‑risk, high‑reward projects.
Preferred Qualifications & Additional Strengths
- Experience with robotic platforms for synthetic chemistry, such as Chemspeed, Opentrons, or custom‑built systems.
- Background in data‑driven materials discovery, including the use of high‑dimensional descriptors and property prediction models.
- Familiarity with cloud computing resources (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and containerisation tools (Docker, Singularity) for scalable workflow deployment.
- Knowledge of database management systems (SQL, NoSQL) and electronic lab notebook (ELN) integration.
- Previous involvement in industry‑focused projects or partnerships, highlighting an ability to translate academic insights into commercial applications.
Skills & Competencies for Success
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex chemical problems, develop hypothesis‑driven computational models, and interpret data critically.
- Problem Solving: Resourceful in tackling unexpected experimental outcomes and iterating computational pipelines efficiently.
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Comfortable navigating interdisciplinary teams, respecting diverse expertise, and building consensus.
- Technical Communication: Craft clear, concise reports, visualisations, and presentations for both specialist and non‑specialist audiences.
- Adaptability: Thrive in a fast‑moving research environment where priorities evolve as new discoveries emerge.
- Self‑Motivation & Independence: Manage time effectively while working remotely, setting clear milestones and delivering results without constant supervision.
- Ethical Research Conduct: Commitment to reproducibility, data integrity, and adherence to university and funder guidelines.
Career Development, Learning Opportunities & Future Prospects
Joining the University of Liverpool’s cutting‑edge Cheminformatics group opens a gateway to an expansive network of academic collaborators, industry partners, and interdisciplinary research centres. Throughout the two‑year appointment, you will have access to:
- Dedicated mentorship from Professor Andrew Cooper, a globally recognised leader in supramolecular chemistry and materials design.
- Professional development workshops covering advanced machine‑learning techniques, scientific writing, and grant acquisition.
- Opportunities to attend and present at leading conferences such as the American Chemical Society (ACS) meetings, EuCheMS, and AI‑Chem conferences.
- Potential pathways to secure a permanent academic position, transition into R&D roles in high‑tech chemistry firms, or launch a technology‑focused startup.
- Support for publishing open‑access articles, contributing to pre‑print servers, and engaging with the broader scientific community via webinars and podcasts.
Work Environment & Company Culture
The University of Liverpool prides itself on fostering an inclusive, supportive, and intellectually vibrant workplace. Even as a remote employee, you will be woven into the fabric of a collaborative culture that values:
- Diversity & Inclusion: A proactive commitment to hiring, retaining, and celebrating staff from varied backgrounds, including gender identities, ethnicities, abilities, and LGBTQIA+ communities.
- Flexibility: Work‑from‑home arrangements, flexible hours, and a results‑oriented performance model that trusts you to deliver high‑quality research on your own schedule.
- Well‑being: Access to mental‑health resources, virtual social events, and a supportive network of peers and mentors.
- Innovation: A research‑first mindset that encourages experimentation, risk‑taking, and the pursuit of transformative ideas.
Compensation, Benefits & Perks
While the precise salary will be aligned with your experience and qualifications (Grade 7: £39,105 – £45,163; Grade 6: £38,000 – £43,000 pending PhD award), the overall package includes:
- Annual performance‑linked increments and a pension scheme matching contributions.
- Comprehensive health insurance, including dental and vision coverage.
- Generous paid leave (25 + public holidays) and additional research‑related travel grants.
- Professional development budget for conferences, training courses, and certifications.
- Access to university libraries, digital subscriptions, and high‑performance computing resources.
- Discounts on campus facilities (sports, cultural events) and a wide range of employee assistance programmes.
Commitment to Diversity, Equality & Inclusion
The University of Liverpool actively cultivates a workplace where every individual feels respected and valued. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, people living with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. By embracing a broad spectrum of perspectives, we enhance creativity and drive the scientific breakthroughs that define our reputation.
Application Process – How to Join Our Team
If you are ready to embark on an exhilarating research journey that merges chemistry, data science, and automation, please follow these steps:
- Prepare your application: Upload a tailored CV, a cover letter outlining your motivation and fit for the role, and any supporting documents (e.g., research statements, publications list).
- Submit online: Use the University of Liverpool’s recruitment portal to submit your application before the closing date of 17 November 2024.
- Optional informal inquiry: For any queries about the role, project specifics, or supervisory expectations, you may contact Dr Zuzana Oriou at [email protected].
- Selection: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview panel comprising Professor Cooper, senior faculty, and HR representatives.
- Offer: Successful candidates will receive a formal employment contract outlining salary, grade, and start date (immediate start preferred).
All applications will be processed in accordance with the university’s data‑protection policy. Rest assured that your information will be treated confidentially and used solely for recruitment purposes.
Closing Statement – Your Future Starts Here
This is more than a postdoctoral appointment; it is an invitation to become a catalyst for change in the way chemistry is conceived, explored, and automated. By joining Professor Cooper’s team, you will be at the vanguard of autonomous research, contributing to discoveries that could reshape industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to renewable energy.
Don’t miss the chance to propel your career forward while working from the comfort of your own home. Apply now and become an essential part of a world‑class research community committed to innovation, excellence, and impact.
Apply Now
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