Sustainable Materials and Textile Innovation Associate (CSRIS1370)

University of Leeds; Hull and East Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed academic institution is seeking a KTP Associate in Hull to develop an innovative recycling process for high-visibility PPE textiles in collaboration with MYGroup. The position offers the chance to conduct research, manage project milestones, and gain experience in sustainability-focused innovation, supported by significant personal development opportunities.

Benefits

Personal Development budget of £4,000

10% of time dedicated to Personal Development

Residential training sessions for skill development

Access to mentoring sessions

Qualifications

• Experience in developing innovative processes for recycling.
• Ability to manage project milestones and engage with stakeholders.
• Strong background in mechanical, thermomechanical, and chemical recycling methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of a fibre-to-fibre recycling process.
• Conduct research and hands-on experimentation.
• Develop decision-making tools and sorting systems.

Skills

Project management

Research methods

Stakeholder engagement

Innovation in sustainability

Education

Relevant degree (preferably in textiles or engineering)

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.

Role

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.

About MYGroup

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.

Benefits

• Personal Development budget of £4,000 available for the successful candidate.
• All KTP Associates spend 10% of their time on Personal Development.
• Learning how the Research and Development organisation of a large multi-national manufacturer of fast-moving consumer goods works.
• Experience of cutting-edge consumer research techniques and project management.
• 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 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.

How to Explore or Inquiries

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]