Research Associate - Knowledge Transfer Partnership Associate

Applications are invited for a Materials Scientist (KTP Associate) to deliver a collaboration project between the University of Greater Manchester "Fire Materials Research" team and Cambridgeshire based Generation Phoenix Ltd (Gen Phoenix), which manufactures its sustainable, reclaimed leather products to partners including Dr. Martens, Jaguar Land Rover and Coach.

This exciting 24-month KTP project, funded by Innovate UK is your opportunity to join the partnership team and gain experience in circular textiles product development and fire materials science. Gen Phoenix’s ambition is to develop next generation fire retardant circular textiles with desirable aesthetic properties using sustainable and circular components and manufacturing processes.  

As the KTP Associate, you'll bridge the gap between cutting-edge academic research and industrial application, driving forward Gen Phoenix's commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles in engineered leather products, while building expertise in fire materials science in Greater Manchester.

The role will suit a candidate with a strong academic background, experience of working independently in the lab and an interest in discovering the fundamental science behind observed properties. Then translating this understanding to develop groundbreaking fire-retardant circular textiles with enhanced aesthetic properties using sustainable components and manufacturing processes. You'll be working on innovative textile architectures specifically designed for transport applications, with a focus on aviation and transport. Your goal will be to develop environmentally sustainable fire-retardant textiles which are economically viable and compliant with the relevant Fire Safety Regulations.

About you

We're looking for a determined, hardworking individual with:

• A good honours degree and/or MSc/PhD, or equivalent, in; Textile Science, Chemistry, Chemical Sciences, Polymer Science, Materials Science or a related scientific discipline
• Strong knowledge of materials and analytical techniques with experience of working on independent research projects
• Excellent communication and IT skills
• The ability to work as part of a collaborative team across multiple locations
• A passion for sustainability and circular economy principles
• Experience in fire materials research would be particularly valuable, but is not essential.

What we offer

• The opportunity to pursue an MPhil degree during the KTP project
• Dedicated mentoring from both academic and industrial experts
• 25 days of annual leave + bank holidays.
• Career development and training opportunities.
• Extensive professional development opportunities
• The chance to make a real-world impact on sustainable manufacturing
• Experience in both academic and commercial environments
• Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience

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