Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Sonochemical Reaction Engineering - Chemistry and Catalysis

We are seeking a full‑time Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sonochemical Reaction Engineering – Chemistry and Catalysis to join James Kwan’s Physical Acoustics Lab at the Department of Engineering Science (Begbroke Science Park). The post is funded by Oxford University Innovations (OUI) through the University Seed Challenge Fund (UCSF) and is fixed‐term to 4th January 2027.

Oxford is world‑leading in the design of bespoke sonochemical reactors and the study of sonochemical reaction engineering. We excel at controlled experiments aimed at determining the driving forces for optimally efficient sonochemistry across different reactor scales. We are seeking one highly talented and motivated researcher to exploit our wide range of sonochemical reactors, catalyst developments, and physical and chemical characterisation tools to understand and optimise the conversion of air and water into nitrogenous compounds to be used for fertiliser.

You will be responsible for engaging in experimentation and technology development towards optimising and understanding sonochemical nitrogen fixation to help advance our internationally leading programme of research. This work will also contribute towards building a case for a potential spin‑out.

You will hold a relevant PhD/Dphil (e.g. Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, etc.) or be near completion
* together with relevant experience and possess significant knowledge in nitrogen fixation chemistry, catalysis, and analytical chemistry methods, with particular emphasis in the field of non‑thermal chemistries. Experience and expertise in acoustics, sonochemistry, and working with bespoke reactors is a positive. Exceptional interpersonal skills (ability to work in a cross‑disciplinary team and build collaborative relationships with external funding bodies), ability to independently plan and manage a research project, including a research budget, and act as a source of information and advice to other members of the group on scientific protocols and experimental techniques are highly desirable traits.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to James Kwan (email: )

£39,424 to £47,779 per annum (Grade
7)