Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY
Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY

Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY

Bath Full-Time 38784 - 46049 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a dynamic team to innovate cementitious materials for carbon capture.
  • Company: University of Bath, renowned for research and diversity.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and generous leave.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while collaborating internationally.
  • Qualifications: Doctoral degree in relevant fields and experience in materials science.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth and support.

The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 £ per year.

About the role

Here at the University of Bath, we are looking for a Research Associate to join us on an exciting partnership with the University of Malaga in Spain, the University of Manchester, and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in France. This project sits within the framework of the consortium, X-SeeO2 - ‘Real-time X-ray diffraction and microstructure imaging: accelerating the transformation of cementitious materials into CO2 sinks’, funded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) under the Pathfinder “Towards Cement and Concrete as Carbon Sinks” Challenge. The Challenge seeks to support breakthrough innovations and alternative pathways for producing decarbonised and carbon-negative cement and concrete while maintaining its structural integrity and durability. The 'X-SeeO2' project has been selected as a key enabling technology, and as part of the team you will develop mechanochemistry pathways for the development of cementitious materials from mineral resources.

Duties will include but not be limited to:

  • Determining the existing correlations between the properties of minerals of different provenances, and the effect of mechanochemical processing on their chemical reactivity.
  • Elucidating how mechanochemically activated mineral resources influence the microstructure features of reaction products formed in blended cements produced with them.
  • Applying laboratory and synchrotron analytical materials characterisation techniques (e.g. X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, spectroscopy, and X-ray computerised tomography, and others).
  • Creating models of the processes and/or materials developed in this project.

About the candidate

  • Doctoral degree in Materials Science, Geology, Environmental Science or closely allied disciplines.
  • Fluency or good understanding of Spanish and/or French languages will be helpful but not essential.
  • Background in cementitious materials chemistry and/or mineral processing.
  • Experience in the characterisation and modelling of Portland and/or non-Portland cements.
  • A demonstrated understanding of the interrelationships between the chemistry of the cements evaluated, their phase assemblage and their pore structure development.

You will be working and collaborating with a dynamic, collegial, and multi-disciplinary team of researchers at the University of Bath, and the different partner Universities and organisations comprising the X-SeeO2 consortium.

Further Information

This role is offered on a full time (36.5 hours) fixed term basis from May 2026 to October 2027. For an informal conversation about the role please contact Professor Susan Bernal Lopez.

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year. We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.

What we can offer you

We’re continually expanding our benefits package to better support you and enhance your experience with us and the below is just an example of some of the many great benefits we offer:

  • Free counselling services through Health Assured.
  • Cycle to work scheme.
  • Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
  • Staff discount at Team Bath gym.
  • Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees.
  • Staff discount on language courses.
  • Generous employer contributory pension schemes.
  • Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work-life balance.
  • A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more.
  • Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath.
  • Local discounts and more.
  • A family-friendly workplace.
  • An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce.
  • Relocation allowance.
  • Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses.

Find out more about our benefits and watch the video to hear from our staff about what makes the University of Bath a great place to work.

Closing Date: 22 Feb 2026

Department: Education & Research

Salary: £38,784 to £46,049

Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath

The University of Bath is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that celebrates diversity and fosters professional growth. As a Research Associate, you will be part of a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team engaged in groundbreaking research on sustainable cementitious materials, with access to extensive development opportunities, generous benefits, and a commitment to work-life balance in the beautiful city of Bath.
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Contact Detail:

University of Bath Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Bath or related institutions. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help us stand out.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the project details. Understanding the X-SeeO2 initiative and its goals will show our genuine interest and make us more relatable during discussions.

Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help us refine our answers and boost our confidence. Let’s focus on how our skills align with the role's requirements.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep track of our application status easily.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY

Materials Science
Geology
Environmental Science
Cementitious Materials Chemistry
Mineral Processing
Laboratory Analytical Techniques
X-ray Diffraction
Thermogravimetry
Spectroscopy
X-ray Computerised Tomography
Characterisation and Modelling of Cements
Understanding of Phase Assemblage
Pore Structure Development
Fluency in Spanish
Fluency in French

Some tips for your application 🫡

Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. It’s packed with clues about what the University of Bath is looking for in a candidate, so tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with their needs.

Showcase Your Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on your background in materials science or related fields. Be specific about your work with cementitious materials and any relevant projects you've been involved in. This will help us see how you can contribute to the X-SeeO2 project.

Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we want you to be professional, don’t shy away from letting your personality shine through. Share your passion for research and innovation in cement and concrete, and why you’re excited about this role. A personal touch can make your application stand out!

Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and updates there, so it’s a win-win!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mineral cementitious materials and the latest research in the field. Familiarise yourself with the X-SeeO2 project and its goals, as well as the techniques mentioned in the job description like X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetry.

Show Your Collaborative Spirit

This role involves working with a multi-disciplinary team, so be ready to discuss your experience in collaborative projects. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others, especially in research settings, to highlight your teamwork skills.

Language Skills Matter

While fluency in Spanish or French isn't essential, it can give you an edge. If you have any language skills, be sure to mention them during the interview. Even basic knowledge can show your willingness to engage with international partners.

Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the project. This shows your genuine interest and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively. Ask about the specific challenges the team is facing or how success will be measured in this role.

Research Associate (Mineral Cementitious Materials Science) (KP13373) - Bath, BA2 7AY
University of Bath
Location: Bath

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