Doctoral Research Associate

Aston University; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Aston University is seeking a collaborative researcher to join an exciting project on advanced membranes. You will develop a bespoke experimental rig to evaluate ion transport and operate membrane-testing equipment within a cross-disciplinary team at the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME).

You will design, construct and run experiments, analyse results and communicate findings through reports and conferences, while mentoring junior researchers and developing leadership skills in a

Qualifications

• A PhD, or a doctoral thesis submitted before appointment, in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related discipline
• Relevant experience of laboratory research, experimental equipment or membrane characterisation
• The ability to analyse and communicate research findings clearly
• A collaborative approach and willingness to develop new skills

Responsibilities

• Design, construct and operate membrane-testing equipment
• Conduct experiments using polymeric and inorganic membranes
• Apply analytical techniques to quantify ion permeability
• Communicate findings through reports, publications, seminars and conferences; support junior researchers

Skills

Laboratory research

Membrane characterisation

Data analysis

Collaborative work

Education

PhD in chemical engineering or mechanical engineering or related discipline

Job description

Aston Institute of Materials Engineering

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Salary: £38,784 to £41,064per annum

Grade: Grade 08

ContractType: Fixed Term(36 months)

Basis: Full Time

ClosingDate: 23.59 hours BST on Monday 21 September 2026

InterviewDate: Wednesday 07 October 2026

Reference: 1322-26

ReleaseDate: Friday 04 September 2026

Are you interested in using experimental science and engineering to help develop the next generation of advanced membranes?

Aston University is seeking a collaborative and practically minded researcher to join an exciting project funded by the Advanced Research + Invention Agency. Working with researchers at the University of Birmingham, you will develop a bespoke experimental rig to evaluate selective ion transport through advanced self-assembled membranes.

Based within the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME), you will join a supportive and interdisciplinary research environment spanning membrane science, chemistry, physics and engineering. You will design, construct and operate membrane-testing equipment, conduct experiments using polymeric and inorganic membranes and apply appropriate analytical techniques to quantify ion permeability.

You will collaborate with colleagues, share knowledge and data and communicate your findings through reports, publications, seminars and conferences. You will also have opportunities to support junior researchers and develop your own technical, communication and leadership skills. Aston’s Early Career Researcher Forum provides additional mentoring, peer support and professional development opportunities.

We are looking for candidates with:

• A PhD, or a doctoral thesis submitted before appointment, in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or a related discipline
• Relevant experience of laboratory research, experimental equipment or membrane characterisation
• The ability to analyse and communicate research findings clearly
• A collaborative approach and willingness to develop new skills

Aston University values diversity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

For informal enquiries, contact Professor Paul Topham, Director of the Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence, at [e-mail].

What we offer:

• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and developmentopportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 daysof bank holiday and University closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendlypolicies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here .

Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here

This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at [e-mail]