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- Tasks: Conduct innovative research on sustainable materials for radioactive waste disposal.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a leading research institution.
- Benefits: 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in nuclear safety and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field; PhD or equivalent experience preferred.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 33700 - 41000 £ per year.
Overview
Research Associate in Cementitious Materials at The University of Sheffield. The post is in the School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering, SMASH research group, focusing on development of novel, sustainable materials for radioactive waste disposal and cement-based materials for the nuclear sector.
Responsibilities
- Conduct a laboratory-based investigation on the application of innovative limestone calcined clay cements to the safe long-term immobilisation of wastes at the Sellafield site.
- Establish and advance knowledge in the application of cementation to immobilise radioactive wastes, aiming to reduce the hazard posed by radioisotopes.
- Design and implement an experimental programme to understand the compatibility between waste materials and candidate cements.
- Lead the preparation of progress reports for project partners.
- Lead interactions with external partners and liaise with the research group and collaborators on work progress.
- Disseminate research findings through peer‑reviewed journals.
- Plan activities of the research project in agreement with the supervisory team.
- Complete required safety and training courses and comply with safety, licensing, and ethical regulations at all times.
- Embed the University sustainability strategy into working activities wherever possible.
- Any other duties commensurate with the grade of the post.
Person Specification / Qualifications
Essential and desirable criteria are assessed at application and interview. Requirements include:
- A good honours degree (or equivalent) in chemical engineering, materials science, chemistry, civil engineering, physics, or a related discipline.
- Hold or be close to completion of a PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline with broad knowledge of cementitious materials in nuclear and construction sectors.
- Knowledge and experience of the chemistry, engineering, and materials science of cements (including limestone calcined clay cements) for radioactive waste immobilisation.
- Experience with relevant cement testing and characterisation techniques (e.g., isothermal calorimetry, leaching analysis, ICP-OES, XRD, SEM, XRF, FTIR, NMR, TGA, electron microscopy, and related methods).
- Strong technical focus with the ability to design and conduct experiments and/or modelling to measure properties of complex material systems; ability to plan and progress work activities.
- Creative problem-solving ability and awareness of longer-term implications.
- Strong leadership and management skills appropriate for a senior role within the research group.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting clearly and concisely; ability to communicate results to academic and industrial audiences domestically and internationally, supported by publication/travel history.
- Ability to work within a university research group and collaborate with external partners.
Further Information
- Grade: Grade 7
- Salary: £38,784 – £41,064
- Work arrangement: Full-time
- Duration: To start as soon as possible with an end date of 29 February 2028
- Line manager: Senior Lecturer
- Direct reports: N/A
Our website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/cmbe
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Brant Walkley, Senior Lecturer, at b.walkley@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process: the selection process is expected to take place in late September or early October, including a presentation and panel interview. The university will notify candidates of progression within two weeks of the close date. For accessibility needs or adjustments during the recruitment process, contact cmbe-postaward@sheffield.ac.uk.
Our vision and strategic plan: we are the University of Sheffield. More details at sheffield.ac.uk/vision.
Benefits
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave (pro rata, including bank holidays and closure days) with option to purchase more.
- Flexible and hybrid working where applicable.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Discounts and rewards on shopping, dining, and travel.
- Staff networks for support and development.
- Recognition Awards for outstanding performance.
- Development opportunities with mentoring schemes and Academic Career Pathways.
- Family-friendly policies and support (e.g., leave for parenting, fertility support, menopause resources).
Disability Confident Employer. If you meet the essential criteria and have a disability, you may be invited to participate in the next stage of the selection process.
Baseline personnel security standard (BPSS) check is a condition of employment.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence and a commitment to a diverse community of staff and students.
Seniority level
- Entry level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
Industries
- Higher Education
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Research Associate in Cementitious Materials employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Cementitious Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at The University of Sheffield, especially in the SMASH research group. A friendly chat can give us insider info and might just help us get our foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that presentation! Since the selection process includes a panel interview, we should practice explaining our research clearly and confidently. Use visuals if we can – they can really help make our points stick!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off our passion for sustainability! The job focuses on innovative materials for radioactive waste disposal, so let’s highlight any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate our commitment to sustainable practices.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at The University of Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Cementitious Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in cementitious materials and any specific projects you've worked on that relate to radioactive waste disposal. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can contribute to our research group. Be sure to mention any innovative ideas you have for the project – we love creativity!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since effective communication is key in this role, make sure to demonstrate your written communication skills in your application. Whether it's through your CV, cover letter, or any additional documents, clarity and conciseness are essential. We want to see how well you can convey complex information!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you'll find all the details you need about the role and our research group there. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Materials
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of cementitious materials, especially limestone calcined clay cements. Be prepared to discuss their applications in radioactive waste immobilisation and how they relate to the nuclear sector.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Highlight your experience with relevant testing and characterisation techniques like isothermal calorimetry and electron microscopy. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied these methods in past projects or research.
✨Prepare for Collaboration
Since this role involves liaising with external partners, think about your past experiences working in teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with others to achieve research goals.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Potential
As a Research Associate, you'll need strong leadership skills. Prepare to discuss any previous leadership roles or experiences where you've taken initiative, managed projects, or guided team members through challenges.
