Research Associate

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (60 months) 

Biochar Optimisation and Material Characterisation for Low-Carbon Construction and Environmental Materials

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join the flagship SmartChar programme, a five-year, EPSRC funded research programme focused on developing self-sensing, low-carbon concrete infrastructure through the integration of biochar materials, advanced fibre optic sensing, and digital technologies.

This role focuses on the assessment, optimisation and advanced characterisation of biomass-derived biochar and biochar production technologies for use in low-carbon concrete, as well as wider biochar applications in civil and environmental engineering. The postholder will help establish the material and process foundation for the programme by investigating how feedstock type, pyrolysis technology, reactor configuration, process conditions and resulting biochar properties influence performance in construction-related applications.

The position combines biochar production and process optimisation, pilot-scale pyrolysis trials, reactor system comparison, mass and energy balance assessment, emissions/yield evaluation and advanced material characterisation. This will include working with rotary kiln and auger pyrolysis systems, generating process datasets, and applying characterisation techniques such as TGA/DSC, FTIR, BET and XRD, alongside functional testing such as water holding capacity, hydrophobicity and thermal behaviour.

The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues in Aston’s EBRI, AIPT, Department of Civil Engineering and the wider programme team and its industrial partners.

Subject to satisfactory performance, salary progression within the grade banding may apply following an initial period in post.

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 qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.

See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Thursday 02 July 2026

Interview Date: Friday 10 July 2026

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