Postdoctoral Research Assistant In Circular Product Engineering in Oxford

Postdoctoral Research Assistant In Circular Product Engineering in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 35000 - 45000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
University of Oxford

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead engineering activities to analyse and design sustainable electrical products.
  • Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Circular Economy and Sustainability Lab.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, a generous pension, and free access to Oxford colleges.
  • Other info: Collaborate with over 25 partners in a dynamic and innovative research environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the transition to a low-carbon circular economy.
  • Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience in product design and sustainability.

The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.

We are seeking a full‑time Postdoctoral Research Assistant to join the Circular Economy and Sustainability Lab in the Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford. The post is funded by UKRI, is fixed‑term for one year, with a possibility of extension.

The PDRA will join the Circular Electrical and Electronics Project (CEEP), which aims to enable a low‑carbon circular economy for electrical and electronic equipment (EEEs) that reduces the mining of rare, expensive and critical raw materials. CEEP is supported by a consortium of over 25 partners from across the EEE value chain.

The PDRA will lead the engineering evidence‑generation activities in Work Package 2. The role will focus on analysing IT and telecommunications products, including smartphones, laptops, servers and routers, to develop a comprehensive engineering database of circular material, component and product design interventions. This evidence will underpin the development of a decision‑support framework for industry to understand sustainability trade‑offs for different circular design strategies.

About you

The candidate should possess a relevant PhD/DPhil (e.g., Engineering, Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Product Design) with practical experience in product design and relevant knowledge of circular economy, eco‑design and sustainable design. They should be competent in engineering analysis, including product teardown, product architecture mapping, component and material analysis, and engineering feasibility assessments. A willingness to learn and the ability to work independently and as part of a larger team dedicated to the transition to the circular economy are essential.

What we offer

At the University of Oxford, your happiness and wellbeing at work are important to us. Benefits include 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays and fixed closure days), a generous pension scheme and free access to the Oxford colleges.

Postdoctoral Research Assistant In Circular Product Engineering in Oxford employer: University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment that fosters creativity and innovation in neuroscience. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through various development opportunities. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the university provides a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in research.

University of Oxford

Contact Details:

University of Oxford Recruitment Team

We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Assistant In Circular Product Engineering in Oxford

PhD/DPhil in Engineering or related field
Product Design
Circular Economy Knowledge
Eco-Design
Sustainable Design
Engineering Analysis
Product Teardown