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- Tasks: Lead research on water purification technology and collaborate with industry partners.
- Company: Join Salinity Solutions, a spin-out from the University of Birmingham, innovating in water purification.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable technology while gaining hands-on experience in a cutting-edge field.
- Qualifications: A degree in engineering or related field; higher degree preferred; analytical skills essential.
- Other info: Work primarily at Salinity Solutions in Birmingham, with potential for career progression.
The predicted salary is between 36130 - 45413 £ per year.
Position Details
School of Engineering
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149
Grade: 7
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to February 2028
Closing date: 15th July 2025
Final round interviews scheduled: 31st July 2025
Background
This is an exciting opportunity to lead a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham and Salinity Solutions Limited. The Knowledge Transfer Partnership project will focus on scaling-up the technology and transferring existing knowledge of this process from the University of Birmingham to Salinity Solutions, where it can be commercialised and accelerate the growth of the company. The need is to develop significantly larger system designs and simulations and to embed the added knowledge into the business as a legacy capability to reduce the reliance on the University.
Please note that the successful applicant will be employed by the University of Birmingham but will be primarily based at Salinity Solutions Limited premises in Tyseley Energy Park, Fordrough, Yardley, Birmingham, B25 8DW.
About Salinity Solutions Limited
Salinity Solutions is a spin out of the University of Birmingham. Salinity Solutions Limitedis commercialising a high efficiency water purification system using patented Batch Reverse Osmosis technology, known as HyBatch. Systems using this technology are used to purify water, outputting two streams: pure water and concentrated brine.
About Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme is a government-funded technology transfer initiative that supports partnerships between business and universities, placing graduates on challenging, high-profile projects. Further information is available at: www.birmingham.ac.uk/ktp
Role Summary
The post holder will carry out research on and work with Salinity\’s customers to ensure there is a robust approach to and recording of: system design, testing, simulation, scale up, and membrane fouling analysis.
The KTP Associate will be required to set up new testing facilities at the expanding company facilities at Tyseley Energy Park, embedding a rigorous testing process for the scaling up and design for manufacture of new desalination systems to meet customer requirements. Through the partnership, the Associate will develop the ability to: (i) model and predict fluid flow and system performance for large-scale systems; (ii) assess how different types of fouling may affect the membranes and how to mitigate this risk. The Associate will also:
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids
- Operate within area of specialism
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Essential skills:
- Analysis and modellingof process technologies and/or systems.
- Ability to conduct experiments and document results clearly and accurately
- Excellent time management and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to design, modify and operate experimental and pilot equipment; to make and interpret observations reliably.
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use effectively.
- Ability to identify and learn new techniques and software skills, through self-study, training and/or CPD.
- Work within specified research grants and projects and contribute to writing bids.
- Operate within area of specialism.
- Analyse and interpret research findings and results.
Desirable skills:
- Use of specialist software such as CAD, CFD, data logging, and/or PLC programming
- Preparation of scientific articles for publication
- Contribute to generating funding
- Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
Main Duties
The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Contribute to writing bids for research funding
- Analyse and interpret data
- Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding
- Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars etc
- Supervise students on research related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
- Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
- Develop clear technical objectives for research and development activities, with assistance of a mentor if required
- Collect, analyse and interpret data from experiments, simulations and trials
- Apply scientific and engineering knowledge to create new approaches, designs, or system improvements
- Prepare technical reports, summaries, and presentations to communicate findings to both academic and industry audiences
- Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods
- Undertake management/administration arising from research
- Contribute to enterprise and business development including identifying opportunities for system improvement and supporting customer engagement
- Collect research data; this may be through a variety of methods such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
- Present technical outputs at meetings, technical workshops, and, where appropriate, research seminars or conferences
- Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
- Identify and propose solutions to problems or technical challenges that may arise during research and development.
Person Specification
Essential:
- First degree in area of specialism andnormally, a higher degree relevant to research area or equivalent qualifications/experience
- High level analytical capability
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly
- Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
- Experience in process technology such as water treatment processes
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
- Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly
Desirable:
- PhD or equivalent industrial experience in relevant technology area e.g. water industry/water treatment/desalination.
- Use of specialist software such as CAD, CFD, LabVIEW and/or PLC programming.
- Track record in preparing and publishing articles for scientific publication.
- Experience of membrane technology (e.g. RO or nanofiltration) including testing, diagnosing, optimising of prototypes and introduction of innovative solutions.
- Experience in design for manufacture.
- Experience in modelling energy performance of systems.
- Experience in quality assurance and associated documentation.
- Experience in delivering training.
Informal enquiries to Soroosh Sharifi, email: s.sharifi@bham.ac.uk
We believe there is no such thing as a \’typical\’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .
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Research Fellow (KTP Associate – UoB/Salinity Solutions Ltd) - School of Engineering - 105932 -[...] employer: University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (KTP Associate – UoB/Salinity Solutions Ltd) - School of Engineering - 105932 -[...]
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies and methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as Batch Reverse Osmosis and fluid flow modelling. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the water treatment and desalination sectors. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights into the industry and possibly refer you for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities of this role. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled similar challenges in past projects, especially those involving system design and testing.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your understanding of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme and its objectives. Showing that you are aware of how this partnership works and how it benefits both academia and industry can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (KTP Associate – UoB/Salinity Solutions Ltd) - School of Engineering - 105932 -[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and essential skills required for the Research Fellow position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Strong CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your academic qualifications, relevant experience, and skills. Emphasise any experience in process technology, research, and your ability to communicate complex information.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your analytical capabilities and problem-solving skills relevant to the position.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, make sure to include any experience with water treatment processes, modelling techniques, or software tools mentioned in the job description. Use concrete examples to illustrate your expertise and contributions in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Birmingham
✨Understand the KTP Framework
Familiarise yourself with the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme and its objectives. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the goals of transferring knowledge from the University of Birmingham to Salinity Solutions.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Highlight your experience with process technologies, especially in water treatment and desalination. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied analytical techniques or software like CAD or CFD, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare examples of how you've identified and solved technical challenges in previous roles. The interviewers will be looking for your ability to assess resource requirements and effectively manage projects, so have relevant anecdotes ready.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex information in a straightforward manner. Since the role involves communicating findings to both academic and industry audiences, being able to convey your ideas clearly will be key to your success in the interview.