At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team investigating innovative recycling methods for vinyl plastics.
- Company: University of Bath, a diverse and inclusive institution with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension schemes, professional development, and local discounts.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable polymer chemistry and contribute to Net Zero goals.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry or related field, knowledge in photochemistry and polymerisation.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 € per year.
About the role
Vinyl plastics such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polystyrene, and related materials underpin a wide range of high-value applications, yet their robust carbon–carbon backbones make them exceptionally difficult to recycle at the end of life. Current recycling routes are dominated by mechanical reprocessing or by high-temperature thermochemical methods that operate with poor selectivity and high energy demand. These limitations present a major barrier to achieving circularity for vinyl polymers and contribute significantly to the carbon footprint of the plastics sector.
In this project, you will play a central role in the chemistry-led work package investigating the fundamental mechanisms governing photo-depolymerisation of materials such as PMMA (Perspex). You will collaborate with colleagues in the Department of Chemical Engineering (Cavitation initiated depolymerisation) and the Department of Mechanical Engineering (systems analysis) at the University of Bath. This mechanistic insight will directly inform process optimisation, reactor design, and extension of the methodology to additional vinyl polymers and mixed plastic systems. As part of a wider team, you will also interact with Chemical Engineers and Systems Analysis experts to assess potential technologies as scalable recycling concepts, contributing to a step-change in sustainable polymer chemistry aligned with Net Zero and circular-economy goals.
About you
- PhD in Chemistry or associated discipline
- Knowledge in Photochemistry / Photocatalysis and / or (de)polymerisation chemistry
- Broader idea of non-thermal and non-mechanical plastic recycling or chemical recycling of plastics
- Excellent oral, interpersonal and written communication skills
- The ability to work well in an interdisciplinary environment
- Ability to organise and prioritise own workload to meet required deadlines
- Ability to write research reports and to effectively disseminate outcomes
Further information
This role is offered on a full time fixed term basis (36.5 hours per week for 36 months).
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 equity 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
- Employee assistance services through Health Assured, including access to the Wisdom app
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff benefits include discounted postgraduate tuition and language courses, alongside a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning, and more
- Local discounts, including free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- 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
Be Well at Bath
We’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including: Staff support groups and networks, a network of Staff Wellbeing Champions, and a suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thrive.
Closing Date: 05 Jun 2026
Department: Education & Research
Salary: £38,784 to £46,049
Research Associate (SS13638) - 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 promotes gender equity. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including a substantial annual leave allowance, and a focus on wellbeing, staff are supported in achieving a positive work-life balance while contributing to groundbreaking research in sustainable polymer chemistry. Located in the historic city of Bath, employees enjoy access to local discounts and a family-friendly workplace, making it an ideal environment for personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (SS13638) - Bath, BA2 7AY
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the University of Bath on LinkedIn or other platforms. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Research Associate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the latest research in photochemistry and polymer science. Show us you’re not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re genuinely passionate about the field and ready to contribute to our sustainability goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves collaboration with various departments, being able to articulate your ideas clearly is key. Try explaining complex concepts to friends or family to refine your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits package there.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (SS13638) - Bath, BA2 7AY
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in photochemistry and polymer science, and show how your skills align with the project goals at the University of Bath.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent written communication is key for this role, ensure your application is clear and concise. Use proper formatting and check for any typos or grammatical errors before hitting send!
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:We love collaboration! In your application, mention any past experiences where you worked in interdisciplinary teams. This will show us that you can thrive in a diverse environment like ours.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your knowledge of photochemistry and polymerisation. Be ready to discuss specific mechanisms and recent advancements in the field, especially those related to PMMA and recycling methods. This will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your excellent oral and written communication skills. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated complex ideas, whether in research reports or presentations. This is crucial for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to talk about how you prioritise your workload and meet deadlines. Share specific strategies or tools you use to stay organised, as this role requires managing multiple tasks and collaborating with various departments.
✨Embrace Diversity and Inclusion
Familiarise yourself with the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how your unique background or experiences can contribute to a positive work environment and align with their values.
