Postdoctoral Research Associate in Sustainable Polymer Gel Electrolyte Materials at Aston University Aston University in United Kingdom

Aston University is inviting applications for a postdoctoral Research Associate position in the field of sustainable polymer gel electrolyte materials, funded by the EPSRC. The successful candidate will join the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence and work on the project "Sustainable Responsive Hybrid Ionic Liquid-Polymer Gel Electrolyte Materials." The research focuses on the development of new gel electrolytes for energy storage applications, utilizing advanced polymer synthesis and self-assembly strategies. The role involves laboratory-based experimental work, including polymer synthesis and advanced characterisation techniques such as electron microscopy, rheology, and X-ray scattering.

The project is highly interdisciplinary, combining materials science, chemistry, and chemical engineering, and aims to create sustainable materials for next-generation energy storage. The research group, led by Dr. Matthew J. Derry, is internationally recognized for its work on polymer and membrane science. The successful applicant will collaborate with colleagues in the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence and the School of Engineering & Innovation, contributing to knowledge sharing and dissemination of results.

The position is fully funded for 12 months, with a salary range of £38,784 to £43,482 per annum. The role is likely to qualify for the UK Global Talent visa under the Endorsed Funder route, making it accessible to international researchers. The application deadline is 20 April 2026, and interviews are scheduled for 8 May 2026. Applicants should have a PhD in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, with experience in polymer synthesis and characterisation. The university is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

To apply, candidates should submit their application via the Aston University job portal. For more information about the research, recent publications and podcasts are available, and interested applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Matthew Derry or the recruitment team for further details.