At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage research projects and analyse scientific data for groundbreaking artificial lung technology.
- Company: Brunel University London, a leader in innovative engineering and research.
- Benefits: Generous leave, training opportunities, hybrid work, and a solid pension scheme.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering project that could revolutionise healthcare with bio-based nanomaterials.
- Qualifications: Degree in materials, chemistry, physics, or civil engineering; experience in material development preferred.
- Other info: Collaborate with top European institutions in a dynamic, multidisciplinary team.
The predicted salary is between 36640 - 38638 ÂŁ per year.
Overview
Applications are invited for the position of Researcher to work under the supervision of Professor Mizi Fan on a research project funded by the European Commission, Horizon Europe CELLMEMBRANE (Development of delignified nanocellulose based gas transfer scaffold membrane for artificial lung applications). CELLMEMBRANE aims to develop the world’s first bio-based nanomaterial “nanocellulose” to manufacture an artificial lung device. The consortium will develop an initial proof of concept nanocellulose device to demonstrate gas transfer and initial hemocompatibility in blood. This project, in a consortium-based approach, combines the technologies and expertise of Smart Reactors (Ireland), NUIG (Ireland), University of Tubingen (Germany), Cellink (Sweden) and Brunel University London (UK) to address the need for a long-term lung support to be used outside of the intensive clinical setting.
Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus
Post details
- College / Directorate: College of Engineering, Design & Physical Sciences
- Department: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Full Time / Part Time: Full Time
- Salary: Grade R1 from ÂŁ36,640 to ÂŁ38,638 inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to ÂŁ39,682 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution.
- Hours: Full-time
- Contract Type: Fixed-term
- Posted Date: 10/10/2025
- Closing Date: 14/11/2025
- Ref No: 4967
- Documents: Job Description (Word, 105.42kb)
Responsibilities
- Main duties will involve sub-project management and coordinating multiple aspects of work to meet deadlines.
- Test hypotheses and analyse scientific data from a variety of sources.
- Review and refine the work programme as appropriate.
- Collaborate in the preparation of scientific reports and journal articles, and frequently present papers and posters.
- Work autonomously and as part of a multi-disciplinary research team; liaise effectively with external collaborators and stakeholders.
- Carry out research activities in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and support a hybrid working approach.
Qualifications
- Applicants must hold a degree in materials, chemistry, physics, civil engineering or a related subject area.
- You should ideally have expertise in developing, formulating and functionalizing materials.
- Knowledge of wood and other natural fibres, and nanocellulose production would be an advantage.
- Good communication skills and ability to travel to other partners across the European Union are required.
Desirable attributes
- Ability to organise, implement and deliver programmes of work with evidence of postdoctoral publications.
- Ability to work effectively in a laboratory environment and in a multidisciplinary team.
What we offer
We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme and a range of health-related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach.
Application process
Interviews will take place on the week following the closing date (14 November 2025) via MS Teams. For further details about the post including the Job Description and Person Specification and to apply please visit the Brunel Careers site.
If you have any technical issues please contact hrsystems@brunel.ac.uk
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce to reflect our community.
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Research Assistant - 16612 employer: Brunel University of London
Contact Detail:
Brunel University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant - 16612
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of materials and nanocellulose. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential collaborators or mentors.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the project and the team at Brunel University London. Be ready to discuss how your skills in materials science can contribute to the CELLMEMBRANE project and show off your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your work! If you’ve got any publications or projects related to nanocellulose or materials engineering, make sure to highlight them during your discussions. It’s all about demonstrating your expertise and passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through directly. It makes it easier for us to keep track of candidates and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant - 16612
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Assistant role. Highlight relevant experience in materials, chemistry, or nanocellulose production. We want to see how your background aligns with the project’s goals!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for research and any specific experiences that relate to the CELLMEMBRANE project. Let your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team. Mention any previous collaborations or presentations you've done, as these are key for this role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through the Brunel Careers site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brunel University of London
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you understand the specifics of the CELLMEMBRANE project and the role of nanocellulose in artificial lung applications. Familiarise yourself with recent advancements in this field, as well as the technologies used by the consortium partners. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience in materials science, chemistry, or civil engineering. Highlight any relevant projects or publications, especially those that demonstrate your ability to work autonomously and in a team. Be ready to explain how your skills align with the responsibilities of sub-project management and data analysis.
✨Practice Communication
Since good communication skills are essential for this role, practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your previous work or ideas, so rehearse how you would do this clearly and confidently. Remember, it’s not just about what you say, but how you say it!
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the project, the team dynamics, and the university's approach to hybrid working. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.