Materials Chemist (KTP Associate)

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious graduate with the ability and confidence to manage a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project with Ingevity UK Ltd, Warrington.

The University of Manchester and Ingevity are looking to recruit a KTP Associate to undertake a 24-month project to develop a detailed understanding of the mechanisms of unwanted polymer formation during the production of caprolactone monomer, to optimise the existing production process and inform future plant design.

The position will provide the successful candidate with a unique opportunity to play a central role in solving a major bottleneck in a large-scale, commercial, production process. It will involve the initial identification of the fouling material composition, structure, and distribution using advanced analytical techniques to develop an understanding of the polymer formation mechanism and hence the possible remediation strategies. A small-scale model of plant operations will be developed in hardware and software to understand the fouling problem, to trial successful remediation strategies for the current plant, and to influence the design of new plants.

Candidates will have, or be near completion of, a PhD in analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, polymer chemistry or chemical engineering, or equivalent industrial experience in a chemical industry.

This post is funded through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) award, a UK Government scheme intended to promote sustained and mutually beneficial relationships between universities and industry.

Based at The University of Manchester and Ingevity in Warrington, the successful candidate will work directly with supervisors from both the University and Ingevity and will use the facilities and resources of both organisations.

Due to the nature of the funding, KTP Associates who have already completed a KTP are not eligible to apply.

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

Blended working arrangements may be considered

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

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Professor Michael Turner / Dr Lee Fielding

Email: michael.turner@manchester.ac.uk / lee.fielding@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:

Email: People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk

Technical support:

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

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

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.