Research Associate in Polymer Recycling for Sustainable Materials in Healthcare

Job reference: SAE-027804
Salary: £36,924-£45,163 per annum, depending on relevant experience
Faculty/Organisational unit: Science and Engineering
Location: Oxford Road
Employment type: Fixed Term
Division/Team: Department of Materials
Hours per week: Full time (1 FTE)
Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 03/02/2025
Contract duration: 36 months
School/Directorate: School of Natural Sciences

Join a groundbreaking research project transforming the way we manage plastic waste in healthcare. We are seeking an enthusiastic and innovative Research Associate to be part of an EPSRC Prosperity Partnership between The University of Manchester and healthcare leader Bupa.

The Challenge

Healthcare is one of the largest contributors to plastic waste, relying heavily on single-use materials for infection control and efficiency. This role offers a unique opportunity to drive sustainable change by developing advanced recycling strategies for non-reusable plastics.

The Role

You will lead a work package that maps, categorises, and evaluates the recycling potential of healthcare plastics, including materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and PVC. Through innovative mechanical and chemical recycling approaches, you will optimise processes to transform waste into high-quality recyclates. Collaborating with interdisciplinary researchers and Bupa, you will design and conduct trials, evaluate environmental impacts, and help shape new solutions for circularity in healthcare materials. Your work will directly inform the development of sustainable systems that reduce reliance on incineration, cut emissions, and minimise plastic pollution.

Why Join Us?

This is more than a research role—it is a chance to make a real-world impact. You will work in the Sustainable Materials Innovation Hub, part of the prestigious Henry Royce Institute, alongside experts in polymer chemistry, social sciences, and life-cycle assessment. You will also collaborate closely with Bupa, an international healthcare provider committed to sustainability.

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

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status  All appointments are made on merit.

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: Dr. Tom McDonald - Reader in Sustainable Materials

Email: thomas.mcdonald@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

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

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

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