Job Title

Research Fellow in Advanced Characterisation of Metal–Organic Framework CompositesBe among the first 25 applicants, 4 weeks ago Are you interested in the microscopic structure of composites and membrane materials? Would you like to develop new electron microscopy or focused ion beam microscopy approaches for spatially resolved analysis of metal–organic frameworks? Are you interested in host–guest interactions in membranes? Metal–organic framework (MOF) materials in both crystalline and glass forms exhibit exceptional characteristics needed for membrane applications, from energy-efficient chemical separations to proton and ion conducting membranes for fuel cells and batteries. Composite formation is often required for these membrane applications, as crystalline powders do not have the necessary form factor. The interface between filler and matrix materials becomes a key factor in performance. The structural variation across these internal interfaces remains a significant characterization challenge. These materials require advances in microscopic analysis of multiple amorphous phases and strained interfaces. The addition of molecular guests, such as chemicals involved in separation, ions, water, or other solvents, further alters the structure and properties. These changes are heterogeneous, depending on guest loading or hydration levels. This role involves exploring structural changes at interfaces in MOF-based membranes using advanced electron microscopy and focused ion beam microscopy. You will apply electron pair distribution function analyses to investigate host–guest interactions in crystalline and glassy MOFs and polymer-MOF composites, utilizing cryogenic microscopy techniques to capture molecular guests within these porous solids. Facilities at the Leeds Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy Centre (LEMAS), along with national and international microscopy and structural characterization facilities, will be available for your work. You will join a wider team specializing in advanced electron microscopy at Leeds and the Bragg Centre for Materials Research, collaborating with academic and industrial partners across the UK and internationally. This role is based at the University of Leeds campus, with scope for hybrid working arrangements. We are open to flexible working discussions. For further details or inquiries, contact: Dr. Sean Collins, University Academic Fellow Tel: +44 (0)113 343 2798 Email: Please note that this position may qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route; however, first-time applicants might need to meet salary concession requirements. For more information, visit the UK Government’s Skilled Worker visa page. Eligibility under the Global Talent visa will also be considered. What We Offer In Return26 days holiday plus approximately 16 bank holidays (including Christmas), totaling 42 days annually Generous pension scheme with 14.5% employer contribution and life assurance Health and Wellbeing benefits, including discounted staff memberships at The Edge gym, featuring a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls Personal development opportunities through courses offered by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team Additional benefits like on-site childcare, shopping discounts, and travel schemes#J-18808-Ljbffr