Chair Of Formulation Science

Full time, 35 hours per hour        Fixed term April 2024 – March 2027 The School of Physics and Astronomy has long enjoyed an international reputation for innovative research in fundamental aspects of soft matter and biological physics, currently led by more than 10 principal investigators. In recent years, especially after the establishment of ECFP by Prof Wilson Poon, Chair of Natural Philosophy, in 2012, our soft matter and biological physicists have also become known for using the knowledge base they have generated to help industry solve problems and speed up the innovation process. Since its foundation, ECFP has worked with over 50 companies, large and small, spread across multiple sectors. Its members were involved in founding the Food Physics Group of the Institute of Physics, the Formulation Forum of the Society of Chemical Industry and the National Biofilms Innovation Centre.  We now wish to appoint an exceptional candidate who will enhance and promote our ongoing effort to establish links between fundamental aspects of soft matter and biological physics and industrial applications, and to provide additional leadership for ECFP as it seeks to expand its activities. The Chair is expected to have a strong understanding of one or more areas of soft matter and biological physics, and an expansive perspective for the application of these areas to Formulation Science, broadly conceived, probably gained through significant experience of working in industry in research and innovation. The Chair is expected to join the board of ECFP to provide leadership in conjunction with other board members.  Candidates will have an outstanding record of research and innovation in soft matter science and technology, and the vision, leadership, experience and enthusiasm to help maintain and develop ECFP into a leading centre for knowledge exchange in Formulation Science with a global reach across diverse industrial sectors. A commitment to excellence in teaching is essential and all academic staff are expected to contribute to teaching and curriculum development at appropriate levels. The School is particularly interested in candidates who can help us enhance our students’ training, at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, to better equip them for working with industry. Enthusiasm for developing courses for continuing professional development in Formulation Science will also be welcome. The Chair is expected to contribute to the wider life and work of the School of Physics and Astronomy in general, demonstrating a collegiate approach to School, College and University-wide leadership roles, committees and initiatives.  This post is advertised as full-time (35 hours per week), however, we are open to considering part-time or flexible working patterns.  We are also open to considering requests for hybrid working (on a non-contractual basis) that combines a mix of remote and regular on-campus working.  Your skills and attributes for success:  An established reputation for research and innovation within academic and/or industrial settings  Evidence of effective communication to a variety of audiences, such as influencing external stakeholders A track record of securing resources for major research programmes Extensive experience in managing people and resources in a research context Click to view a copy of the full job description