Research Fellow in Mechanochemistry, Catalysis and Plastic Depolymerisation

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The role

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow position to work in the Catalysis for Chemical Circularity Group in School of Engineering, University of Surrey. The main role of the post holder will be to carry out experimental based research on PET depolymerisation into monomer chemicals using mechanochemistry, developing research expertise and portfolios in this emerging field towards a circular plastic economy. This interdisciplinary project is in close collaboration with academics in University of Birmingham, Imperial College London and Queen's University of Belfast, and companies in the waste management and plastic production sectors. By participating in the stakeholder engagement, the post holder will gain great insight in the plastic chemical recycling field, and development their professional network and career growth. The main project objectives are:

O1. Design efficient nanoscale catalysts and robust mechanochemical process to recycle PET into monomer feedstocks.

O2. Benchmark different mechanochemical reaction systems for kinetics and parameter translation.

O3. Understand the depolymerisation mechanism using advanced characterisation for further catalyst discovery and process engineering.

About you

The successful candidate should hold or about to receive a PhD in Material Science, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. S/he should have a strong background in experimental catalyst design, characterisation and testing. Prior knowledge of mechanochemistry, polymer chemistry and physics, plastic chemical recycling is especially welcomed.

Essential experiences, knowledge and skills include:

• Practical experience with experimental design, catalytic reactions, material characterisation and chemical product analysis
• Ability to conduct a detailed review of recent literature
• Skilled in characterisation and analysis techniques such as XRD, FTIR, TGA, Raman spectroscopy, chromatography, NMR, and mass spectroscopy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 
• Willingness to travel both within the United Kingdom and abroad to conduct research and attend conferences

How to apply

To apply for this role, please upload a CV and cover letter with your application on the University of Surrey website.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr. Hui Luo (hui_luo@surrey.ac.uk).

Further details

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply' button above.
 
In return we offer a generous pension, relocation assistance where appropriate , flexible working options including job share and blended home/campus working locations (dependent on work duties), access to world-class leisure facilities on campus, a range of travel schemes and supportive family friendly benefits including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all.  We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

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