Research Fellow

The School of Computing, Engineering & The Built Environment at Edinburgh Napier University are number one in Scotland for research in Computer Science & Informatics, Engineering and for Architecture, Built Environment and Planning (Research Excellence Framework in 2021).

The way we work as a school is intrinsically linked with industry, to ensure our world-leading research and teaching has an impact in all areas of life; on where we live, how we get around, how we share information and keep it safe, and even how we protect the future of our planet.

Currently, we are recruiting a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to work on a new project - “SproutSmart”, focusing on developing a universal platform for agrochemical-controlled release through electrospinning techniques and extensive material characterisation.

The Role:

As Research Fellow, you will have the opportunity to use your experience with electrospinning (including method development, optimization, and scale-up) to conduct research on biodegradable polymer formulations for controlled release applications, contributing to the advancement of electrospinning techniques in agriculture.

Your strong working knowledge of analytical and characterization techniques such as DSC, FTIR, Tensile Testing, SEM, and biodegradation assays, will put you in an excellent position to develop and optimise protocols for electrospinning processes, including coaxial electrospinning, ensuring stable and tuneable nutrient release profiles.

The role will also give you remit to use your extensive experience of working in laboratory facilities to oversee the day-to-day operations of the Polymer Engineering Laboratory and the Materials & Nano Materials Laboratories, ensuring that facilities, equipment, and experimental procedures are maintained and continuously improved.

Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to work closely with our industrial collaborator Impact Solutions. Impact Solutions is a UKAS accredited laboratory and innovation centre with a long consistent thread of innovation and new technology development within the areas of waste valorisation, recycling and sustainability, spanning over 20 years.

This collaboration will provide you with the chance to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to advancing biodegradable polymer research and nanomaterial applications, contributing to cutting-edge innovations in sustainable agriculture.

About you:

• PhD in Materials Science, Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
• Demonstrable expertise in polymers, particularly biodegradable polymers, and their processing
• Proven hands-on experience with electrospinning, including method development, optimization, and scale-up
• Strong working knowledge of analytical and characterization techniques such as DSC, FTIR, Tensile Testing, SEM, and biodegradation assays
• Experience of working with laboratory facilities, including equipment maintenance, risk assessments, and compliance with Health and Safety regulations
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, work independently, and meet strict deadlines

Benefits:

Minimum of 46 days annual leave, generous pension scheme (17.6%), flexible working and professional development opportunities.

Salary:

£ p/a

Hours:

Full Time – 35 hrs/wk

Contract:

Fixed Term – 12 months

If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact, Dr. Reza Salehiyan (r.salehiyan@napier.ac.uk), Dr Dongyang Sun (D.sun@napier.ac.uk) or Dr Sameul Patterson (sam.patterson@impact-solutions.co.uk)

The University holds Disability Confident, Carer Positive and Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champion status. More details can be found here. We are a flexible Employer.

The University may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on several factors specific to the successful applicant. Check salary criteria for the visa on https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa. Contact us to discuss individual circumstances on recruitment@napier.ac.uk

Advert information