At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct innovative research in mechanical recycling processes and collaborate with industry partners.
- Company: Join Loughborough University, a leader in education and innovation.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, competitive pay, and access to fantastic facilities.
- Other info: Dynamic, interdisciplinary environment with strong links to industry and excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability through cutting-edge research in recycling technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant discipline and experience in experimental research required.
The predicted salary is between 35608 - 41064 £ per year.
Package Specialist and Supporting Academic Research grade 6 from £35,608 to £41,064 per annum. Subject to annual pay award.
This role is not suitable for remote working and is 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.
Role and Expectations
We are looking for a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Associate with a background in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, ideally with experience in recycling processes and lifecycle analysis. You will bring strong experimental, analytical and problem-solving skills, a track record of research dissemination, 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 27 months, contributing to a major EPSRC and Defra-funded project addressing synthetic sports turf recycling. Candidates should have (or be near completion of) a PhD 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.
Key Benefits
- Time off - generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, with the option to buy extra through our holiday purchase scheme.
- Facilities - Access to a range of fantastic facilities with plenty of green space across our 523 acre East Midlands campus, plus an exciting community at our London campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Financial Wellbeing - Competitive pay, two excellent pension schemes, and everyday savings opportunities.
- Support - Through our range of life event leave policies as well as access to an on-site nursery at our East Midlands campus, flexible and hybrid working options.
- Health and Wellbeing - Discounted gym memberships and access to world-class sporting facilities, including physiotherapy, plus healthcare offers such as eyesight testing and wellbeing support.
- Travel and sustainability - Access to our electric vehicle and cycle-to-work schemes, as well as a variety of travel offers to support sustainable commuting.
Application Process
We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process. If there are additional adjustments you would like to request, please contact Professor Shahin Rahimifard. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.
Job Details
- Closing Date: 05 July 2026
- Interview Date: week commencing 20 July 2026
- Job status: Full Time, Fixed Term for 27 months.
- Salary: £35,608 – £41,064 per annum.
Research Associate in Mechanical Recycling Processes in Loughborough employer: Karlstad University
Loughborough University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work environment within the Wolfson School of Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering. With a strong focus on employee growth, competitive benefits including generous holiday allowances, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to sustainability, we empower our staff to make meaningful contributions to society while enjoying a balanced work-life experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Mechanical Recycling Processes in Loughborough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meetups related to mechanical engineering and recycling processes. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research projects, experiments, and any relevant work you've done. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, do some mock interviews with friends or mentors. Focus on articulating your experience in mechanical recycling processes and how it aligns with the role at Loughborough University.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our vibrant community at Loughborough University.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Mechanical Recycling Processes in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Associate in Mechanical Recycling Processes. Highlight your relevant experience in mechanical or manufacturing engineering, especially any work related to recycling processes and lifecycle analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your skills align with our mission at Loughborough University. Be sure to mention any collaborative projects you've worked on, as teamwork is key in this position.
Showcase Your Research Experience:We want to see your track record of research dissemination. Include any publications, presentations, or projects that demonstrate your experimental and analytical skills. This will help us understand your contributions to the field.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our vibrant community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Karlstad University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mechanical recycling processes and lifecycle analysis. Familiarise yourself with recent advancements in the field and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
This position involves working with multidisciplinary teams, so be prepared to share examples of past collaborations. Highlight your ability to engage with industry partners and how you've contributed to project delivery in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Travel Questions
Since the role requires travel to national and international partners, think about your willingness and past experiences with travel. Be ready to discuss how you manage logistics and maintain productivity while on the move.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Prepare specific examples from your research where you faced challenges and how you overcame them, particularly in experimental research or mechanical process development.
