Research Associate in Biobased Polymer Composites

University of Bristol Law School; Bristol; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Bristol is searching for a Research Associate to conduct advanced research on biobased composite materials. The role encompasses publishing in high-impact journals and presenting at international conferences. The ideal candidate should have a PhD in composite materials and a strong background in physical sciences. This role offers a full-time position with a competitive salary, concluding with funding in January 2027.

Qualifications

• Strong background in physical science and engineering is required.
• Evidence of first authorship in publications is essential.
• Experience with international conference presentations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-level research into bio-based composites.
• Publish high impact journal papers.
• Present research at international conferences.

Skills

Physical science and engineering

Research publication skills

Presentation skills

Education

PhD in composite materials

Job description

Overview

The role holder will conduct research into the development of biobased composite materials based on nanocellulose fibres and polymeric resins derived from lignin. The programme of work is in collaboration with the University of Tokyo, Japan (Associate Professor Yukiko Enomoto) and so will involve some travel and work with a wider group of researchers. The work at the University of Bristol will involve the production and characterisation of composites, including resin infusion technologies for thermoset resins produced at Tokyo. Mechanical characterisation of the composites will be undertaken, along with advanced characterisation using spectroscopy (Raman) and Atomic Force Microscopy. The research associate will be expected to publish papers in high impact journals, and be able to present their work at international conferences. The role holder will integrate into the research in the Bristol Composites Institute and within the groups of Professors Steve Eichhorn and Ian Hamerton. This may involve supervision of other research students and contributing to the life and running of the institute.

What will you be doing?

• Carrying out high level research into bio-based composites using nanocellulose and naturally derived resin (matrix) materials.
• Publishing of high impact journal papers.
• Attendance and presentation of research at international conferences.
• Collaboration with an international group of researchers (at the University of Tokyo, Japan).

You should apply if

• A strong background in a physical science and engineering.
• A PhD (completed) in composite materials and a background in sustainable polymers.
• A good publications record with evidence of first authorship.
• Experience of presenting work at international conferences and meetings.

Additional information

• For informal queries please contact: Professor Stephen Eichhorn: [e-mail]
• To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog: https://engineering.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/category/engineering-includes-me/
• Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 31/01/2027
• Work pattern: Full time
• Grade: I
• Salary: £39,906 - £44,746 per annum
• School/Unit: Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering
• This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Sunday 28th September.
• Interviews are expected to take place on Friday 10th October.
• Our strategy and mission: We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.
• The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives - particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.