Sustainable Materials and Textile Innovation Associate

University of Leeds; Leeds; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution is seeking a KTP Associate to develop innovative recycling processes for PPE textiles. Candidates should hold a PhD or Master's degree in a related field and have a strong background in sustainability. This role offers a unique opportunity to impact recycling practices and work closely with industry experts. The position includes a £4,000 personal development budget and various training opportunities.

Benefits

£4,000 Personal Development budget

Mentoring sessions through Innovate UK

Access to residential training sessions

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or related discipline.
• Strong background in sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative fibre-to-fibre recycling process for PPE textiles.
• Conduct research on recycling methods to transform textile waste.
• Manage project milestones and engage with stakeholders.

Skills

PhD or Master's degree in Materials Science

Strong background in sustainability

Education

PhD or Master's degree

Job description

Overview

Based at MYGroup Hull Ltd., Morley Street, Hull HU8 8DN. Employment is for a fixed period of 24 months to complete specific time-limited work.

Do you hold a PhD or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering or a related discipline? Do you have a strong background in sustainability? Are you interested in working in a multi-disciplinary role providing innovative solutions to unique recycling challenges?

Role and Responsibilities

As a KTP Associate, you will take the lead in developing an innovative fibre-to-fibre recycling process for high-visibility PPE textiles at MYGroup. Working closely with experts from the University of Leeds, you’ll conduct research and hands-on experimentation across mechanical, thermomechanical, and chemical recycling methods to transform textile waste into high-quality materials.

You will contribute to the development of decision-making tools, sorting systems, and internal training resources that will embed new capability within the company. You’ll also be expected to manage project milestones, engage with stakeholders, and present your findings, giving you real-world experience in delivering impactful, sustainability-focused innovation.

MYGroup is an innovative recycling company leading the way in sustainable waste solutions. With major clients in cosmetics and clothing industries and strong investment in advanced technologies, it offers a dynamic environment where your work will have real impact. This role gives you a rare opportunity to apply your expertise to a high-profile, sustainability-focused project with clear commercial and environmental benefits.

In addition to the salary quoted there is a Personal Development budget of £4,000 available for the successful candidate.

Benefits

• All KTP Associates spend 10% of their time on Personal Development, making full use of a £4,000 PD budget;
• Learning how the Research and Development organisation of a large multi-national manufacturer of fast-moving consumer goods company works;
• Experience of cutting-edge consumer research techniques and project management;
• Access to two residential training sessions aimed at developing project management skills;
• Opportunity to gain both management and academic experience;
• Potential to fast-track a career in industry;
• Access to a wealth of academic resources;
• Access to a Travel & Subsistence and Consumables budget;
• Access to mentoring sessions through Innovate UK.

Visa Entitlements

Visa Entitlement: Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route, but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa. For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent

Contact

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR
Dr Eleanor Scott – Lecturer in Fashion Design: Creative Knit & Innovation (University of Leeds)
Email: [e-mail]

Company Supervisor
Rebecca O’Leary – Textiles Manager (MYGroup)
Email: [e-mail]

KTP Office
James Hartford - Innovation Support Coordinator (University of Leeds)
Email: [e-mail]