Research Assistant

University of the West of Scotland – School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences

Part time:  14 hours per week

Fixed term: 18 months until 31^st December 2026

The University of West of Scotland have an exciting opportunity for a PHD graduate to join the School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences as a Research Assistant.

The successful applicant will undertake research by preparing and carrying out experiments to quantify & optimise decontamination potential of ozone gas, ozonated water & mists as well as application of Lasers against key representative surfaces and pathogens. They will be involved in the quantification of material stability by SEM & TEM as well as confocal microscopy and performing cell culture assays for visualization of potential deactivation of bacteria & biofilm.  

The postholder will also conduct literature and database searches, and contribute to the output of high impact publication, and progress our international collaboration.

The successful candidate should have the following: 

• Recent completion of a PhD within chemistry BSc in relevant.
• Ozone Experience 
• Experience of Surface analysis, Nanotechnology and potentially Microbiology
• Some research knowledge beyond first degree, where relevant of surfactants
• Ability to demonstrate up to date knowledge in field or specialism.

About us

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others.  

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2024 Young University Rankings).

The School of Computing, Engineering & Physical Sciences offers industry-focussed teaching and research opportunities that deliver solutions to real-world problems. You will join an innovative and supportive team, playing a key role in driving forward our ambition to deliver transformational change, through outputs that have a tangible, early and positive impact on society across the globe. Our students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, extensive expertise in research and development, and our robust collaborations with multinational companies across the world. 

UWS is fully committed to the UK Concordat to support the Career Development of Researchers which sets out clear standards that research staff can expect from the University. It aims to improve the employment and support for research careers in the UK and provides a framework for career development based around the Concordat principles.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:

• 35 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays.
• An additional days leave on your birthday.
• Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme.
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance.
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers.
• Fitness facilities across our campuses.
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme .
• Professional, career and research development opportunities.

Interview date: Wednesday 20^th August 2025

Please note that the appointment will be made on the first point of the salary scale (unless by exception, where evidence would need to be provided) 

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged. 

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk 

UWS are committed signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant. 

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer. 

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.