Research Assistant​/Associate in HTP Crystallography

Research Assistant/Associate in HTP Crystallography

Salary: Research Assistant £33,002 to £34,610 per annum;
Research Associate £35,608 to £37,694 per annum.

Closing Date: 23 January 2026

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research position (PDRA) in single crystal X-ray diffraction, to work with Dr. Michael Hall and Prof. Michael Probert in Chemistry, at the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences (SNES), Newcastle University. This position is funded by Innovate UK as part of the Sustainable Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Programme (SMMIP), in collaboration with AstraZeneca and Indicatrix Crystallography.

The role will be centred around the development of a high throughput single crystal X-ray diffraction platform, compatible with previously developed high throughput nanodroplet crystallisation methods developed at Newcastle (ENaCt, Chem 2020, 6(7), 1755‑1765). The full‑time post (1 FTE) will involve the development of methodology, instrumentation and workflows, to enable rapid high‑throughput single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of small organic molecules, with a focus on pharmaceuticals.

The project will be performed in‑house using the world‑leading X‑ray diffraction instrumentation available ‑house facilities include six single crystal diffractometers with a range of X‑radiation wavelengths available (Ag, Cu and Mo) alongside state‑of‑the‑art liquid‑handling robots for high‑throughput crystallisation. A high‑specification modern single crystal diffractometer will be installed in early 2026 and this project will have dedicated use of it.

As part of a team, both at Newcastle and as part of the wider collaboration, you will be responsible for setting up and running experiments using bespoke crystallisation techniques and a unique suite of diffraction equipment, for which full training will be provided. Familiarity with single‑crystal X‑ray diffraction techniques is a necessity with experience of instrumentation design a strong benefit.

You must hold, or be about to obtain, a PhD or equivalent in chemistry, physics, materials sciences, or a related field and a strong background in the analysis of crystalline materials. You should also have the ability to play a leading role within the research team. A track record of publishing research in high quality journals and experience supervising student research projects, commensurate with your experience level, is also desirable.

You will also be encouraged to participate in the group’s vibrant outreach programme.

The appointment is available from January 2026 for an initial term of 12 months, with the potential for extension.

Please contact Dr Michael Hall  or Prof. Michael Probert  with informal inquiries about the post. Formal applications should be submitted through the University job applications portal.

• Perform original research to develop high‑throughput single crystal X‑ray diffraction methodology and protocols for small organic molecules
• Develop instrumentation and equipment to facilitate throughput single crystal X‑ray diffraction analysis
• Conduct crystallisation experiments using both classical and modern methods
• Perform single crystal X‑ray diffraction experiments and analyse the data obtained
• Effectively communicate and work within a large consortium team, including academic and industrial stakeholders
• Prepare results for publication and presentation at conferences and seminars

• Observational and practical skills consistent with the demands of contemporary scientific research
• Proven track record in data analysis
• Good communication skills and the ability to work within a team

• A high standard of written and verbal English
• A high‑level understanding of various crystallographic methods and techniques from crystallisation to extreme conditions diffraction
• Experience of collection of crystallographic data at both home laboratories and central facilities
• Experience of crystal structure solution and refinement from single crystal diffraction data
• Experience of preparation of crystallographic data for publication
• Experience with liquid robot handling techniques
• Skills in…