Research [Assistant or Associate] in Mechanical Design of Polymer Recycling Processes

Full Time, Fixed Term for 24 months

This role is being recruited to either Grade 5 or 6 depending on the pool of applicants we receive and is not suitable for remote working (office / laboratory based only). It is essential that the post holder has the ability and willingness to travel to national and international partners and undertake occasional short visits to project partners. 

Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University.

About the University

Universities are one of this country’s greatest assets. We’re educators, employers, innovators and pioneers. We shape culture and society.

At Loughborough, we strive for better, think differently, challenge convention and take action. We are passionate about finding solutions to the major problems faced by society and the planet, and we create opportunities for those with the drive, the ambition, and the determination to apply themselves in the pursuit of better.

Here’s more about the role and what we’re looking for:

We are looking for a motivated and talented Researcher with a background in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, ideally with experience in recycling processes and lifecycle analysis. You will bring experimental, analytical, problem-solving and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary academic and industry teams.

You will be based at Loughborough University within the Wolfson School, working in the Centre for Sustainable Manufacturing and Recycling Technologies (SMART), and collaborating closely with the Sports Technology Institute and Department of Materials. The role sits within a highly interdisciplinary, industry-facing environment with strong links to national partners and real-world applications.

This is a fixed-term post for 24 months, contributing to a major EPSRC and Defra-funded project addressing synthetic sports turf recycling. Candidates should have a Bachelors or Masters degree (Grade 5) or a PhD or near completion (Grade 6) in a relevant discipline, experience in experimental research and mechanical process development, and a willingness to engage with industry partners, travel, and contribute to project delivery and dissemination.

Why Should You Apply?

With huge amount of variety in the role, there is an opportunity for you to develop and continually grow.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Professor Shahin Rahimifard (S.Rahimifard@lboro.ac.uk

For more information refer to the applicable Job Description and Person Specification below:

Research Assistant in Mechanical Design of Polymer Recycling Processes

Research Associate in Mechanical Design of Polymer Recycling Processes

Application Process

For further support with your application, please refer to our application guidance, which includes some top tips to help you when completing your application.

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments, you’d like to request please contact Professor Shahin Rahimifard. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.

Closing Date: 14 September 2026

Interview Date: week commencing 21 September 2026

Our Benefit

We’re committed to creating an environment where you can flourish. You’ll enjoy generous time off, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, plus a holiday purchase scheme. Other benefits include flexible and hybrid working options, family-friendly support, world-class sporting facilities, and a wide range of financial, health, and sustainability perks. Discover more about our full range of rewards and benefits.

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