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- Tasks: Join a team tackling decarbonisation in plastics and chemicals through innovative research.
- Company: University of Sheffield, collaborating with the University of Bath and industry partners.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while working with a world-class interdisciplinary team.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. or equivalent in Chemical Engineering, with skills in modelling and communication.
- Other info: Inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds and encourages all to apply.
The predicted salary is between 32900 - 39300 £ per year.
Do you have a passion for low carbon production of chemicals & plastics? Are you someone who thrives on analytical challenges and values precision? Are you enthusiastic about working at the intersection of industry and academia? We are looking for one enthusiastic researcher with strong motivation and a track record of successful collaboration in sustainable/chemical engineering to join our team as a Research Associate in Regional Plastics and Chemical Systems Decarbonisation at the University of Sheffield.
You will be an integral part of our vibrant and inclusive interdisciplinary team working on a collaborative project jointly with the University of Bath and our industrial partner, aiming to improve the sustainability of chemical and polymer production by system-level modelling and analysis of regional production routes and future scenarios. Your primary focus will be on conducting chemical engineering models for resource efficiency and decarbonisation for plastics and chemical systems plausible paths for the petrochemicals industry through net-zero scope 1 and 2 emissions to a future that mitigates climate change by reversing our carbon trajectory.
Your work will involve crafting a comprehensive repository of greenhouse gas emission data and mitigation strategies that address the pressing environmental challenges faced by the chemical industry in different regions. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research actively and work alongside a world-class interdisciplinary team.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- Develop a model of refinery/petrochemical production processes relevant to specific regions.
- Develop dynamic stock and flow tools to anticipate future demand for chemicals/plastics and the availability of waste products.
- Model greenhouse gas emissions of chemicals and plastics and develop regional scenarios for decarbonisation.
- Liaise and network with the interdisciplinary research team and academic/industrial partners.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification:
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and are respected. Even if your past experience doesn’t match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
- Ph.D. or equivalent experience in Chemical or Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering or Chemistry assessed by Application.
- Knowledge and experience in life cycle environmental assessment/life cycle thinking assessed at Application/interview.
- Knowledge and experience in process modelling and resource analysis; use of Python, MATLAB or other appropriate programming languages.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate within an interdisciplinary team and present complex information to diverse stakeholders.
- Evidence of potential to produce high-quality research outputs and experience of developing own models and tools.
- Experience in managing own workload, balancing multiple projects, sticking to deadlines and the ability to constantly update knowledge.
- Ability to develop creative approaches to scientific problem solving, often based on the latest developments in the field as described in the scientific literature.
- Experience of developing and maintaining a network of contacts throughout own work area.
- Provide specialist guidance and support and act as mentor/coach, which may involve training and/or identifying development needs for others, to support their occupational development.
Further Information:
- Grade: Grade 7
- Salary range: £38,249 to £46,735 per annum, with potential to progress to £51,039
- Duration: Fixed term until 6th November 2027
- Direct reports: None
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Fanran Meng on f.meng@sheffield.ac.uk.
Next steps in the recruitment process:
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place on week commencing 16th June 2025. This will consist of an interview and presentation. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 2nd June 2025.
If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact Carla Teale on c.teale@sheffield.ac.uk.
A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more. Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles. A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel. A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks). Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role. A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways. A range of generous family-friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies support for those going through the menopause paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering
Research Associate in Regional Plastics & Chemical Systems Decarbonisation employer: International Society for Industrial Ecology
Contact Detail:
International Society for Industrial Ecology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Regional Plastics & Chemical Systems Decarbonisation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Sheffield or the University of Bath. Attend events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to get your name out there and show your enthusiasm for decarbonisation in the chemical industry.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the latest trends in sustainable chemical engineering. Brush up on your knowledge of life cycle assessments and process modelling. We want you to impress with your insights and show that you're not just a candidate, but a passionate advocate for change!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present complex information to diverse stakeholders, so make sure you can communicate your ideas clearly and confidently. Use visuals if you can – they can really help get your point across!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to innovative research in regional plastics and chemical systems decarbonisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Regional Plastics & Chemical Systems Decarbonisation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Make sure to express your enthusiasm for low carbon production and sustainable practices in your application. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and how it aligns with your values.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Reference the specific criteria mentioned in the job description, especially your experience with process modelling and resource analysis. This helps us see how you fit into our team.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working with an interdisciplinary team, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of past teamwork experiences that showcase your communication skills and adaptability.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at International Society for Industrial Ecology
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of chemical engineering models and decarbonisation strategies. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past work or studies that demonstrate your expertise in life cycle assessment and resource analysis.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for low carbon production and sustainability during the interview. Share why this role excites you and how it aligns with your career goals. A genuine passion can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
Since this role involves working with an interdisciplinary team, be prepared to discuss your experience collaborating with others. Think of examples where you successfully worked in a team setting, highlighting your communication skills and ability to manage diverse perspectives.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that show your interest in the project and the team. Inquire about the specific challenges they face in decarbonisation or how they measure success in their research. This shows you’re engaged and thinking critically about the role.
