Cambridge University Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
Research Assistant/Research Associate (Fixed Term)
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Membrane-based Separations for Sustainability
Membrane-based separations are central to addressing major sustainability challenges, from securing critical metal supplies for the energy transition to enabling energy-efficient water treatment. Developing the next generation of membrane processes requires predictive computational models that connect molecular-scale phenomena to system-level performance. However, the thermodynamics and transport behaviour of concentrated, multi-ion aqueous solutions remain poorly understood, limiting rational membrane design and process optimisation.
About the Role
The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) at the University of Cambridge welcomes applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project developing computational models for selective ion transport in complex aqueous mixtures. The research combines molecular simulation, thermodynamic modelling, and continuum transport theory to build predictive frameworks for membrane-based ion separations.
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The role will involve:
- Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations
- Density functional theory (DFT) calculations
- Understanding ion-solvent and ion-membrane interactions
- Development of continuum-scale transport models
This is an opportunity to be a member of a new research group working at the interface of molecular simulation, chemical thermodynamics, and membrane science.
Responsibilities
- You will report to Dr Akshay Deshmukh (PI), a UKRI Future Leaders Fellow at CEB.
- Work alongside an experimental PDRA and collaborate with international project partners.
- Have access to CEB's world-leading facilities and the broader Cambridge research ecosystem, including the Cambridge Centre for Data-Driven Discovery.
Expectations
- Publish in high-impact journals
- Develop and release open-source computational tools
- Present findings at international conferences
- Gain experience in research leadership, grant writing, and mentoring, with support from the PI to help you achieve your career development goals
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Position Details
- Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance.
Application Process
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
- Please quote reference NQ50329 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity, and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
Employment Eligibility
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Apply online
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