Postdoctoral Research Associate in Materials Science

Grade 7 Salary Range £38,249 - £46,735 (Incremental progression)  

Full Time Fixed Term (9 months)

The Opportunity

This post represents an exciting opportunity for an ambitious individual to join the groups of Dr Peter Matthews and Dr Charlene Greenwood in the School of Chemical & Physical Sciences and to work alongside Greenwall Environmental Pollution Control Ltd. This Innovate UK funded Smart Grant project, “Asbestos Testing Optimisation – a progression from manual to automated material assessment” is a collaboration between Keele University and three industry partners (Greenwall Environmental Pollution Control Ltd, Element Materials Technology Environmental Uk Limited, Infinity Project Engineers Limited).

The successful candidate will develop a near infra-red (near IR) spectroscopy technique for analysing asbestos fibres. They will work closely with the industry partners to ensure the project goals align with those of the end user.

You will have, or be submitting, a PhD in chemistry/materials science/physics or other relevant discipline. You will have experience in spectroscopy and in handling dangerous materials. You will be fully trained in the appropriate safety process required for the project and will adhere to them. You will be expected to work closely with the industry partners and provide regular formal updates to them. 

The Benefits

The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:  

• Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
• Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave  
• Excellent staff pension scheme   
• Access to continued personal, professional and career development   
• On site ‘outstanding’ nursery    
• Discounted health & fitness facilities on site  
• Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

The University

Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University’s Occupational Health provider.

How to Apply

For full post details and to find out more about working at Keele, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.

For informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Peter Matthews (p.d.matthews@keele.ac.uk).  Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing Date 21^st July 2025

Interviews will be held on: Date to be confirmed

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