Postdoctoral Research Associate on Ceramic Membranes

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Aston University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary project developing advanced ceramic hollow fibre membranes for bio-separation applications. This role is part of a collaborative research initiative involving academic partners and industry stakeholders.

As the successful candidate you will lead efforts in membrane fabrication using phase-inversion and other material processing techniques, focusing on the integration of organic and inorganic materials. You will carry out in-depth structural and performance characterization, including permeability, selectivity, and fouling resistance tests. You will also manage multiple research tasks, collaborate with national and international partners, and support dissemination through journal publications and conference presentations.

You should hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field. Essential skills include hands-on experience in ceramic/polymeric membrane processing, familiarity with membrane characterization methods, and strong data analysis and communication abilities.

Experience with scaling up membrane technologies, involvement in multidisciplinary projects, or prior industry collaborations would be advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge membrane research with real-world applications. We value proactive, collaborative researchers who are committed to safety, inclusivity, and high-quality science. 

What we offer:

• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role is likely to meet the criteria for endorsement under the ‘Endorsed Funder’ route of the Global Talent visa. The Global Talent visa route is available for talented and promising academics, researchers and specialists who are working in the fields of science, engineering, medicine, the social sciences or the humanities. Please see the published Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent.

Further details:
Job Details
University Information

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk.

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Saturday 17 May 2025

Interview Date: Tuesday 03 June 2025

Advert information