Research Fellow in Sustainable Materials

At the University of East London (UEL), our mission is to prepare students for the careers of the future while shaping that future inclusively and sustainably. As a careers-first university, we believe education and opportunity should be open to all, and that diversity of people and thought is essential to solving society’s biggest challenges.

Founded in 1898 as the West Ham Technical Institute, UEL has always championed industry-focused education and social mobility, earning the name “The People’s University” for its commitment to widening access to technical and professional learning. While our scale and ambition have grown, our purpose has remained constant: empowering communities, advancing social justice, and equipping students with future-proof skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Today, UEL continues this legacy through pioneering research, employer-engaged education, and meaningful community impact. We are tackling health and economic inequalities, promoting sustainability, and helping to build a more inclusive and resilient future.

Guided by our ambitious Vision 2028  strategy, UEL is reshaping education for the benefit of all, empowering students from every background with the skills and opportunities to succeed. Our commitment to excellence is recognised nationally; we are proud to be named University of the Year for Teaching Quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. At UEL, we don’t just teach, we inspire, innovate and empower, shaping the future together.

About the Institute

The Sustainability Research Institute (SRI) is at the forefront of developing eco-efficient technologies and solutions that support a carbon-neutral future.

Our work spans three key themes:

• Blue/Green Infrastructure – enhancing natural systems and environmental resilience
• Sustainable Materials and Resources – advancing low-carbon materials and circular economy solutions
• Sustainable Society – supporting communities and systems in the transition to net zero

As part of this, we have recently launched the London Sustainable Materials Lab (LSML)—a cutting-edge facility designed to accelerate innovation, testing, and knowledge exchange in sustainable materials.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow in Sustainable Materials to play a central role in developing LSML as a leading hub for research, innovation and applied materials testing.

This is a unique opportunity to combine academic research, industry engagement, and laboratory development within a rapidly growing area of strategic importance.

You will:

• Develop and deliver high-quality research in sustainable materials, contributing to REF-quality outputs
• Support and grow LSML as an externally facing research and testing facility
• Lead and contribute to funding applications, consultancy and collaborative projects
• Build partnerships with industry, SMEs, and public sector organisations
• Deliver outreach activities including workshops, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagement
• Support the development of materials testing services and lab capabilities
• Contribute to laboratory operations, safety and quality systems
• Mentor and support MSc and PhD students

This role offers a strong platform to develop your own research profile while driving real-world impact and innovation.

What You’ll Need to Thrive

You will bring a PhD (or equivalent) in materials science, chemistry, environmental science, engineering or a related field, with expertise in areas such as bio-based materials, green chemistry or circular materials systems.

You will have a strong track record of research outputs, alongside experience (or clear potential) in securing funding and engaging with external partners.

Crucially, you will be able to balance research, consultancy and operational priorities, working confidently with both academic and non-academic stakeholders. Strong communication, collaboration, and organisational skills will be key, along with a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape a new, high-impact research facility and contribute to cutting-edge work in sustainable materials.

At UEL, you will join a collaborative and forward-thinking research community where your work can deliver both academic excellence and real-world impact.

Benefits Package

At UEL, we believe that a great role is about more than just a salary. It’s about the complete package, including our outstanding work environment and inclusive culture.

We offer a genuinely competitive salary, dependent on experience (DOE), and a range of excellent benefits.

You can explore our full benefits package here: https://uel.ac.uk/benefits-all-academic-research -position.

Building an Inclusive Future

As an inclusive, equal-opportunities employer and we’re committed to closing the " diversity pay gap". We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and honest that there’s more to do. We’re determined to keep moving forward so everyone at UEL can thrive.

We're a disability confident employer and value all applications. Please let us know if you require any reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.

If you're ready to join a University that values your outstanding skills and perspectives and is dedicated to making a difference, we invite you to explore a career with us. We are excited to welcome versatile individuals who are committed to advancing their careers while making a positive impact on the world.

Please note that this advert may close earlier than the deadline if we receive many applications. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

To contact the recruitment team please phone +44 20 8223 3000 x 4600 or e-mail jobs@uel.ac.uk

CVs without a completed application form will not be accepted.

At UEL we are committed to working together to build a community which values diversity in both our staff and student populations, is representative and inclusive, enabling all to progress and thrive.