Research Associate/Fellow in Continuous Production of Terpene Esters from Flower Waste (Fixed term)

University of Nottingham School of Humanities; University Park (FL); On-site; USD 48,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nottingham invites applications for a Research Associate/Fellow position to develop sustainable biocatalytic processes. The project focuses on wool-based supports for enzyme immobilisation and their use in synthesising terpene esters and pharmaceutical intermediates.

You will design, prepare and characterise enzyme-support materials, evaluate catalytic performance, analyse reaction data, and contribute to publications and funding applications.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Experience in laboratory-based research and experimental design.
• Knowledge of biocatalysis, enzyme immobilisation, or related areas.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Design, prepare and characterise enzyme-support materials.
• Evaluate catalytic performance and explore biotransformations.
• Analyse reaction performance and interpret experimental data.
• Contribute to publications and future funding opportunities.
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.

Job description

Salary

£32,080 to £47,389 per annum, depending on skills and experience (minimum £35608 with relevant PhD).

Area

Chemical & Environmental Engineering

Location

University Park

Closing Date

Monday 05 October 2026

Reference

ENG2092926

Research Associate/Fellow in Sustainable Bioprocess Development (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate/Fellow position to join an exciting research project focused on developing sustainable biocatalytic processes. The project will investigate the creation of novel wool-based supports for enzyme immobilisation and their application in the synthesis of high-value chemicals, including terpene esters and pharmaceutical intermediates. The successful candidate will design, prepare and characterise enzyme-support materials, evaluate their catalytic performance, and explore their use in a range of biotransformations. The role will also involve analysing reaction performance, interpreting experimental data, and contributing to publications and future funding opportunities. This is an excellent opportunity to work at the interface of materials science, chemistry, and biotechnology, contributing to the development of green manufacturing technologies. This is a full-time position (37.5 hours per week) offered on a fixed-term contract.

About The Team

You will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research group with expertise spanning biocatalysis, sustainable chemistry, reaction engineering and materials development. The team provides a collaborative and supportive environment that values innovation, diversity, and scientific excellence. The successful candidate will work closely with academic colleagues and research students and will have opportunities to contribute to mentoring and training activities within the group.

About You

Candidates should hold, or be close to obtaining, a PhD (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Materials Science, or a related discipline.

You Should Be Able To Demonstrate

• Experience in laboratory-based research and experimental design.
• Knowledge of biocatalysis, enzyme immobilisation, or related areas.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with chemical or biochemical characterisation techniques.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

What We Offer

The University of Nottingham is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment where staff can thrive. We offer generous annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays and University closure days, including the Christmas and New Year period. Staff benefit from access to training and professional development opportunities, career progression support, and a wide range of health and wellbeing services. Additional benefits include staff discounts, travel schemes, fitness and recreational facilities, and participation in a vibrant international research community. We are proud to foster an environment where innovation, collaboration, and individual development are encouraged and valued.

Further Details

• Job Description/Role Profile

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