PDRA bio-based film properties researcher

Aberystwyth University; Aberystwyth; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in the UK is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on an InnovateUK-funded project with a focus on seaweed-based plastic innovations. The successful candidate will engage in a variety of laboratory experiments and collaborate closely with industry partners to advance the development of eco-friendly materials. This role offers flexible working arrangements and strong support for professional development in a bilingual setting.

Benefits

Flexible working policy

Generous leave entitlements

Professional development opportunities

Staff relocation bursary

Free Welsh language courses

Qualifications

• Hold a MSc/MEng in biological, chemical or engineering subject area OR have at least 5 years relevant experience.
• Previous laboratory experience including preparation of molar solutions and operation of lab equipment.
• Ability to communicate in Welsh and English.

Responsibilities

• Produce alginate‑based films and characterize them using existing equipment.
• Conduct experiments on decolourisation methodologies and analyze results.
• Write and present reports to the company.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Molar solutions preparation

Mechanical properties determination

Ability to work with industry

Bilingual communication

Education

MSc/MEng in biological, chemical or engineering

PhD in a biological, chemical or engineering discipline

Job description

The Role

This is a post doctoral research associate role, working on an InnovateUK-funded project with seaweed plastic manufacturers PlantSea (based in St Asaph, north Wales).

PlantSea has developed a seaweed-based film that is bio-derived, water-soluble, heat‑sealable, a recipe for full compatibility with existing paper recycling streams.

This project will advance the reformulation, upscaling, and industrial validation of this disruptive film technology. It will also resolve a key barrier to commercial adoption: the removal of native seaweed pigment that imparts a yellow‑brown tint, enabling a clear or colourless appearance aligned with customer preferences. The PDRA will work closely with Plant Sea on this colour aspect, alongside trialling films for mechanical properties such as strength and elasticity and overseeing pilot‑scale trials within AberInnovation’s biorefining facility.

To make an informal enquiry, please contact Dr Jessica Adams at [e-mail].

Appointments are normally made within 4 - 8 weeks of the closing date.

What you’ll do

This job description is subject to review and amendment in the light of the changing needs of the University, to provide appropriate development opportunities and/or the addition of any other reasonable duties.

Principal Duties

1. To produce a range of alginate‑based films using provided methodology and to characterise them using existing IBERS equipment
2. To conduct systematic experiments and tests on preparative solutions to ascertain decolourisation methodologies and the effect of these on the liquids and films produced
3. To analyse the results of these experiments and tests
4. Conduct literature and database searches
5. Write up the results of these experiments and tests
6. Oversee pilot‑scale processing trial (with PI support)
7. Participate in presenting data and reports to the company and related meetings and at conferences, exhibitions etc as appropriate
8. Contribute to the work of the wider research team

Additional Responsibilities

• Undertake other duties as assigned by your line manager, commensurate with the role's grade.
• Engage in university‑level projects and initiatives as directed, and undertake any additional duties commensurate with the role, as assigned by the line manager.
• Demonstrate flexibility by supporting colleagues during periods of high demand, including attendance at key university events such as open days and graduation ceremonies which may include weekend work.
• Promote equality of opportunity, and to support and uphold the University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in all aspects of your work.
• To support the university strategy and underlining plans, engage in continuous personal and professional development in line with the demands of the role, including undertaking relevant training and development activities to develop yourself and support the development of others.
• Fulfil health and safety responsibilities appropriate to the role, while actively promoting the personal health, safety, and wellbeing of staff and students as a member of the Aberystwyth community. Additionally, support the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability through responsible practices and engagement.

The above does not represent an exhaustive list of duties associated with this role.

The responsibilities of this vacancy have been matched to the Academic Role Profile Research 1. Details of the role profile can be found at: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/hr/info-staff/employment/academic-promotions/academic-profiles/

Who you are – Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge and Skills required

Essential

1. Hold a MSc/MEng in biological, chemial or engineering subject area OR have at least 5 years relevant experience
2. Previous laboratory experience including preparation of molar solutions, accurate pipetting and operation of standard laboratory equipment
3. Previous experience in working with industry
4. Previous experience in determining mechanical properties of materials
5. Oral (spoken) and Written Welsh Level A0
6. An ability to understand the bilingual nature of the University and an awareness of the procedures in place to support working bilingually
7. Oral (spoken) and written English C1

Desirable

1. Hold a PhD in a biological, chemical or engineering discipline OR have at least 8 years relevant experience
2. Previous experience in working in or with industrial partners
3. Previous experience in determining mechanical properties of materials
4. Oral (spoken) and Written Welsh Level A1 or above

*More information on Language Levels can be found at:

https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/hr/policy-and-procedure/welsh-standards/

https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/table-1-cefr-3.3-common-reference-levels-global-scale

How to apply

To promote a flexible workforce, the University will consider applications from individuals seeking full time, part time, job share, or term time only working arrangements.

Applications for this role must be made through jobs.aber.ac.uk. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy in Welsh or English and any application submitted will be treated equally.

Benefits

• Flexible working policy
• 36.5 – hour week for full‑time roles
• Generous leave entitlements – 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays and university closed days
• Commitment to Professional Development
• Enhanced contribution to our workplace pension schemes
• Staff recognition and reward schemes
• Opportunity to learn the Welsh language for free
• Staff relocation bursary
• Maternity, Paternity, Parental and Adoption Leave
• Staff discount for gym facilities, hospitality, and retail on campus.

Please keep reading

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities and, those that are currently underrepresented in our workforce. This includes but is not limited to Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, candidates with disabilities, and female candidates.

We are a Bilingual Institution which complies with the Welsh Language Standards and is committed to Equal Opportunities. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy in Welsh or English and any application submitted will be treated equally.

Employment Visa

Under the UK Government’s points‑based system scheme, this role does not meet the criteria to be sponsored by Aberystwyth University (AU) for a Skilled Worker Route (SWR) application.