Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services; Nottingham; Hybrid; GBP 31,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking university as a Research Associate/Fellow in the Chemical and Environmental Engineering department. This exciting role involves developing innovative polymers to combat bacterial biofilm formation, contributing to a project with significant commercial potential. You'll engage in hands-on research, conducting assays and preparing samples, while collaborating with industry partners. Enjoy a supportive and diverse work environment, with opportunities for hybrid working, generous holiday, and professional development. If you're passionate about microbiology and polymer chemistry, this is the perfect opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Benefits

30 days holiday plus bank holidays

Hybrid work arrangement

Bonuses for excellent work

Staff development opportunities

Access to health facilities

Staff discounts

Travel schemes

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold or expect to obtain a PhD in relevant fields.
• Practical microbiological experience is essential for this role.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bacterial biofilm assays and prepare coated samples.
• Explore the commercial potential of a CE-marked polymer coating.

Skills

Practical microbiological experience

Characterization techniques

Microscopy techniques

Knowledge of polymer chemistry

Education

PhD in Biology

PhD in Microbiology

PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Chemical Engineering

Job description

Area

Chemical & Environmental Engineering

Location

University Park

Salary

£31,387 to £46,485 per annum (pro-rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience. Salary progression beyond this scale is subject to performance.

Closing Date

Friday 02 May 2025

Reference

ENG131025

About the role

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow in the department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering to join an exciting project focused on developing polymers that prevent bacterial biofilm formation. The polymer has been CE-marked as a urinary catheter coating, and this project aims to explore its commercial potential. Responsibilities include conducting bacterial biofilm assays and preparing coated samples. The role is based in the Advanced Materials Research Group and Biodiscovery Institute at the University of Nottingham, in collaboration with a UK-based company.

About you

Candidates must hold or expect to obtain a PhD in Biology, Microbiology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related fields. Practical microbiological experience and familiarity with characterization/microscopy techniques for bacterial biofilms are essential. Knowledge of polymer chemistry is preferred.

What we offer

• A supportive and diverse working environment
• Hybrid work arrangement (home and office)
• 30 days holiday (pro-rata) plus bank holidays and university closure days
• Bonuses for excellent work
• Staff development opportunities
• Access to health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes, and more

Next steps

Further information is available in the role profile. To apply, click ‘Apply Now’ and complete your details. The position is a full-time, fixed-term 5-month contract ending by 31 December 2025. Secondment requests may be considered with prior approval. For questions, contact Dr. Adam Dundas (email not provided). Please do not send applications to the email address directly.

Additional information

Our university values diversity and inclusion, holding the Athena Swan Gold Award. We welcome applications from the UK, Europe, and globally. For support during the application process, refer to Candidate Guidance. For relocation information, visit the Moving to Nottingham page. Applications are considered on an equal basis, subject to UK work permission.