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- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research on biochemical sensors for wastewater detection.
- Company: Cranfield University, a leader in water science and engineering.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering team making a real impact on public health through innovative technology.
- Qualifications: Doctoral degree in biosensing, microfluidics, or related fields; experimental skills required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong industry partnerships and recognition in major media.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We welcome applications from a Research Fellow with a strong passion for and experience in biosensing, microfluidics and microbiology. The successful candidate will join our Advanced Sensors team and contribute to the 5-year Leverhulme Research Leadership Award project, Sensing Wastewater for Real-time Public Health.
About the Role
The postholder’s primary responsibility is to conduct cutting‑edge research on a new class of biochemical sensor development for wastewater, especially on the single‑cell and single‑molecule detection, utilising state-of-the-art facilities at the Advanced Sensors Laboratory at Cranfield University. Cranfield University has a proud reputation for its research on the science, engineering and management of water, and we have been driving innovation for over 40 years. You will contribute to the delivery of Cranfield University’s research portfolio in the Advanced Sensors Laboratory for Water‑Environment‑Health, led by Professor Zhugen Yang. The group’s pioneering work on wastewater sensing, especially on origami‑paper microfluidics sensors, has garnered significant national and international recognition, including features in Science and prominent media outlets such as BBC. The origami‑paper device is currently featured at the London Science Museum. The project also involved partnership from world‑leading institutions, such as Harvard University on droplet technology, and industrial sectors.
About You
You will hold a doctoral degree (or close to completion) in biosensing, microfluidics, environmental science, microbiology, or a related discipline. You will have demonstrable experience with experimental skillsets, including sensor development, wastewater surveillance, or reverse inference modelling for source tracking. You will bring laboratory expertise in designing experiments, handling advanced instruments, and troubleshooting. Collaboration and mentoring within interdisciplinary teams are also desirable.
About Us
As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. The group has received national and international acclaim, including coverage in Science, BBC News, and The Washington Post, for its research on wastewater monitoring and origami‑based paper sensors.
Our Values and Commitments
Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family‑friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families.
Working Arrangements
Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on‑site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.
How to apply
For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Professor Zhugen Yang, professor of biosensing and environmental science, on (T): +44 (0) 1234 758310 or (E): zhugen.yang@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 5182. Closing date for receipt of applications: 3 February 2026. Please note that we reserve the right to close this advert prior to the stated closing date should we receive sufficient numbers of applications. Therefore, we would encourage you to complete and submit your application as soon as possible.
Research Fellow in Sensing Wastewater in Cranfield employer: Cranfield University
Contact Detail:
Cranfield University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Sensing Wastewater in Cranfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Cranfield University, especially those in the Advanced Sensors team. A friendly chat can give us insights into the role and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to speak with the hiring team, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for biosensing and wastewater research. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about their work!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of microfluidics and sensor development. We want to see that you can think on your feet and tackle challenges head-on during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining our innovative team at Cranfield University.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Sensing Wastewater in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express your enthusiasm for biosensing, microfluidics, and microbiology in your application. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the research and the impact it can have on public health!
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects or skills that relate directly to sensor development and wastewater surveillance. We love seeing how your background aligns with our cutting-edge work!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the values and goals of Cranfield University. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for our Advanced Sensors team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of biosensing, microfluidics, and microbiology. Be ready to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the cutting-edge work being done at Cranfield University.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for wastewater sensing and public health. Share any personal projects or interests that align with the role, as this will demonstrate your genuine commitment to the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about experimental design and troubleshooting. Think of specific examples from your past work where you successfully handled advanced instruments or developed sensors, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working in interdisciplinary teams, highlight your experience in collaboration and mentoring. Share examples of how you've worked effectively with others to achieve research goals.
