Job Description

Tenure-track Assistant Professor in Inorganic/Materials Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Photo-/Electro-Chemistry in the Department of Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Hong Kong takes pride in being ranked No. 1 among all Chemistry departments in the Hong Kong Research Assessment Exercise, a recognition of our outstanding research and high-quality teaching. Committed to sustaining excellence both regionally and globally, we continue to strive for academic leadership. As part of our strategic growth, we invite high-caliber academics with a strong publication record and innovative vision in Inorganic/Materials Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, and Photo-/Electro-Chemistry, who are also passionate about teaching and mentorship, to join our distinguished faculty. For more information about the Department, please visit: https://chemistry.hku.hk

The Position

We now invite applications for appointment as Assistant Professor in the following strategic research areas:

• Inorganic/Materials Chemistry: Focus areas include metal complexes, quantum dots, and clusters for molecular activation and recognition; bioinorganic structures; and multi-modal contrast agents for MRI/PET.
• Physical ChemistryWe welcome candidates pioneering research in fundamental and applied areas such as (but not limited to) spectroscopy and dynamics, surface and interface science, theoretical and computational chemistry, or soft matter.
• Photo-/Electro-ChemistryAs a key applied sub-field, relevant themes encompass charge carrier dynamics and transport; transient state phenomena and spectroscopic techniques; in-situ and operando vibrational spectroscopic analysis (SERS, SEIRAS); and correlated surface probing using SECM and SNOM.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Pursue and maintain a high-impact research program in the designated field;
• Disseminate research findings through publications in leading scientific journals and presentations at international conferences;
• Secure competitive external research funding and engage actively in collaborative research initiatives;
• Teach and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students, contributing to the Department’s educational mission; and
• Participate in academic administration and service activities in support of the Department and University.

Essential Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline;
• A demonstrated record of high-quality publications in leading scientific journals;
• Proven experience, or strong potential, in securing external research grants and engaging in collaborative projects;
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with a commitment to working effectively in an academic environment;
• A strong dedication to high-quality teaching and student mentorship at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels; and
• Research expertise that complements and enhances the Department's existing strengths in materials, photo-/electro-chemistry, and nanomaterials.

What We Offer

The appointment will be made on fixed-term full-time contract for 3 years initially, with the possibility of renewal and consideration for tenure before the expiry of the second three-year fixed-term contract.

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave, professional leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totaling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable. A start-up package commensurate with the needs and experience of the appointee will be provided.

How to Apply

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload a covering letter, an up-to-date C.V. (including a list of publications), a teaching statement (maximum 2 pages), a research statement outlining current and future research plans and interests, and contact information of at least three referees. It is important to note that at least one of the referees should be able to comment, amongst other things, on the applicant’s research ability and his/her contribution to teaching or research in his/her department, while the remaining two should have knowledge of his/her recent academic or employment experience. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until June 30, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.