Research Associate in Membrane Science and Technology

Chemical separations are critical to almost every aspect of our lives, from the energy we use to the medications we take, yet they consume 10-15% of the world's total energy. Highly selective membranes could make these separations 10 times more efficient and save 100 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually. More selective separation processes are needed for renewable energy, clean growth, waste recovery, plasma and food processing, water treatment, and many other applications. The vision of the Membrane for Electrochemical and Separation Technologies (MEST) research team is to develop the high-selectivity membranes required to enable the adoption of a novel generation of emerging high-value/high-efficiency processes.

We are seeking to recruit a Research Associate to work under the supervision of Dr. Maria Perez-Page in the Department of Chemical Engineering at The University of Manchester. The aim of this position is to develop high-selectivity membranes by incorporating 2D materials onto porous support polymers. Specifically, we will develop GO/Pd membranes for the purification of H2. The successful candidate will be responsible for the synthesis and characterization of the 2D materials and membranes, as well as for designing the experimental setup to evaluate the membranes. The candidate is also expected to develop a model to validate the experimental results obtained.

It is also expected that the candidate will undertake additional activities, such as supervising PhD and undergraduate students working on related projects, and managing the health and safety aspects of the laboratory.

Applications are invited for a fully funded 14-month position as a Research Associate to join the MEST research group, which consists of 2 PDRAs and 8 PhD students. You will be supported in combining your individual talents with the wider team’s breadth of skills and will be based in the Department of Chemical Engineering at The University of Manchester.

Candidates should already hold or be nearing completion of a PhD in chemical engineering with a focus on membrane separation technologies, and have proven experience in synthesis and advanced knowledge of membranes. Previous experience in modelling and simulation is desirable.

The Department of Chemical Engineering at The University of Manchester is a world-leading department that plays a key role in UK membrane technologies. The Department is committed to Athena SWAN principles to promote women in science and engineering. The University of Manchester values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.           

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CVs submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Maria Perez-Page

Email: maria.perez-page@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

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