Research Associate - POLYSMART project

As part of a funded project, via the Vanguard Initiative of interregional European business-led innovation, we are seeking a skilled materials scientist to join our team. The role will help deliver the project objectives between the university and the business partner (an SME producing a biomaterial from food waste) in the valorisation of production waste into new value-add materials. Your work as a materials scientist will support the innovation link between academia and industry, helping to guide the day-to-day tasks and empower both parties in the application of the shared knowledge created.

You’ll lead the way by:

• Evaluating the production process and aiding in the sustainable by design manufacturing redesign.
• Designing and developing novel pathways for the use of biomaterial scraps and off-cuts from the production process, including the analysis and materials characterisation of the material generated.
• Analyse and evaluate biomaterial functional properties, including physical and chemical resistant, including surface antibacterial testing.
• Being comfortable with data, seeking to categorise and format the data generated to understand and elucidate trends and causality in the biomaterial property-function dynamic.
• You’ll play a key role in bridging between the manufacturing team and the university team to inform, translate and disseminate information and findings produced throughout the project lifetime.

What you’ll bring

With superb written and verbal communication skills and experience of presenting data in various formats, you’ll be able to craft insightful reports for both the university and business partner. Your expertise in materials formation and characterisation using multiple lab techniques will enable you to analyse and articulate complex data, thinking creatively to solve problems and turn these into actionable recommendations.

It’s not just about data, it’s about people. As our Biomaterials Research Associate, your exceptional interpersonal skills will enable you to connect with various teams, inspiring and influencing your partners to think strategically.

Additionally you’ll:

• Hold a PhD in materials science, including experience of material characterisation and analysis. Specific biomaterial experience is desirable but not essential.
• Evidence experience of materials processing and reprocessing, through techniques such as grinding, milling, separation, pelletisation, etc. Knowledge of industrial manufacturing is desirable but not essential.
• Demonstrate a varied skillset of analytical techniques, such as particle analysis, surface / structural analysis, tensile and resistance testing, etc. Knowledge of antibacterial testing is desirable but not essential.
• Evidence good presentation skills, particularly in written and verbal format, showcasing your aptitude to present complex data in an accessible manner for actionable decision making.
• Knowledge of international standard testing methods for materials is desirable.
• Be able to support and develop the project team to reach their potential by using a range of engagement techniques.

Why join Cardiff Metropolitan University?

We are a values-based University. We are proud of our culture, and we are there for our people. Our community spirit is the golden thread that underpins our values and behaviours. We support and embrace inclusion that enables everyone to feel respected and able to perform at their best. By joining our University, you'll find yourself in a unique environment where a wealth of knowledge and resources are readily available, supporting you with your career development.

We offer excellent benefits such as:

• Annual leave of 35 days, plus 12 bank holiday / concessionary days.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme with generous monthly contributions.
• Excellent family friendly policies – take a look on our Policy Hub page.
• Opportunities to learn and develop your skills with access to library and digital services facilities.
• Excellent sports and fitness facilities with subsidised membership.
• Free family access to our independent specialist wellbeing support provider, Health Assured.

Contact us

For more information about the role please contact Professor Christopher Wallis on cwallis@cardiffmet.ac.uk or feel free to contact Aleks Janusiewicz, the Recruitment Advisor supporting this vacancy on ajanusiewicz2@cardiffmet.ac.uk.  

All applications must be submitted online.

The person specification will be used as a tool for shortlisting; so please make sure you use this information when writing your application. You can find useful hints and tips about how to apply by visiting our Application Guidance page.

Further details:    Job Description Swydd Ddisgrifiad

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.

Should a high volume of applications be received, we may need to close this vacancy early. We therefore encourage you to apply as early as possible.

Cardiff Metropolitan University is proud to be a Disability Confident employer and a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant.

All applicants with disabilities, or those who are part of the Armed Forces community who during the shortlisting process meet the essential criteria for the role will be progressed to the next stage.

The University is committed to creating a highly inclusive culture. We offer family friendly and flexible working arrangements and a range of staff networks, forums and events to support and develop our people. We warmly welcome applications from those traditionally underrepresented in the higher education sector.