[Neutron] Postdoctoral Research Position - Ionic Liquids

[Rob Atkin]

Dear colleagues,

Expressions of interest are invited for a postdoctoral research position funded by an Australian Research Council Discovery Project. You will work under the supervision of Dr Rob Atkin in the Centre for Organic Electronics and Centre for Advanced Particle Processing and Transport, at the University of Newcastle, Australia (hxxp://www.newcastle.edu.au).

The project will investigate ways to control ionic liquid nanostructure near solid surfaces for lubrication and electrochemical applications. Ionic liquids have distinct performance advantages over conventional molecular liquids as electrochemical solvents and lubricants on account of their unusual and tuneable physical properties, which include thermal and electrical conductivity and stability, and nonvolatility. In both lubrication and electrochemistry, adsorption of ions to the solid surfaces, and the near surface liquid nanostructure, play key roles in determining performance. This project will elucidate ways to control ionic liquid surface adsorption and liquid nanostructure at the molecular level under operating conditions. 

You should have (or be about to receive) a PhD in chemistry, chemical physics, or related areas, and have a proven record of experience with one or more of the following: radiation scattering  and reflectance techniques, atomic force microscopy, nanotribology, scanning tunneling microscopy, or the physical properties of ionic liquids. 

Contact for enquiries:
Dr Rob Atkin (rob.atkin at newcastle.edu.au) +61 2 4921 7107

Timescale of appointment:
Fixed Term Contract - Up to three years subject to satisfactory performance

Salary:
(Level A6)  A$70,188 (52500 euro) + 17% superannuation 

Anticipated start date:
After 1st March 2012.

Expressions of interest: should be emailed to Rob Atkin (rob.atkin at newcastle.edu.au). Include a full academic C.V. and contact details for two referees.