Research Assistant

Do you possess a passion for sustainable food production? Are you someone who thrives on analytical challenges and values precision? Are you enthusiastic about working at the intersection of industry and academia? If so, we invite you to apply for an exciting opportunity within our team. We are seeking a candidate with a bachelor’s degree who will play a pivotal role in a 3.5-year funded BBSRC project. This interdisciplinary project focuses on the development of sustainable, bio-based, and biodegradable growing media tailored for advanced crop cultivation methods, such as vertical farms and hydroponics.

As part of this role, you will be actively involved in researching and characterising bio-based waste materials sourced from various industries. These materials may include sheep’s wool, spent grain, straw, cotton fabrics, and coco coir. Your responsibilities will encompass chemical and biological characterisation, as well as conducting biodegradation studies. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to design and execute small-scale hydroponic plant growth trials within controlled environments. Additionally, this project is supported by industry partners who are co-funders, providing valuable exposure to real-world applications.     

You can view more details about the post and our project by visiting: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/new-environmentally-friendly-growing-materials-be-developed-food-production

What We Offer

• 41 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development, with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support, support for those going through the menopause, experiencing fertility treatment and having a baby, paid leave for IVF treatment and more.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience. Apply now by clicking on the Apply button located near the top of your screen.

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