Research Fellow in Mechanochemistry, Catalysis and Plastic depolymerisation

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The role

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow position to work in the Catalysis for Chemical Circularity Group in School of Engineering, University of Surrey. The main role of the post holder will be to carry out research in polyester-based plastic (PET, PLA, etc) depolymerisation into monomer chemicals using mechanochemistry, developing research expertise and portfolios in this emerging field towards a circular plastic economy. This interdisciplinary project is in close collaboration with academics in University of Birmingham, Imperial College London and Queen's University of Belfast, and companies in the waste management and plastic production sectors. By participating in the stakeholder engagement, the post holder will gain great insight in the plastic chemical recycling field, and development their professional network and career growth. The main project objectives are:

O1. Design efficient nanoscale zeolite catalysts and robust mechanochemical process to recycle PET and PLA into monomer feedstocks.

O2. Benchmark different mechanochemical reaction systems for kinetics and parameter translation.

O3. Understand the depolymerisation mechanism using advanced characterisation for further catalyst discovery and process engineering.

Some of the key responsibilities include:

To conduct data analysis and ensure the validity and reliability of data at all timesTo maintain accurate and complete records of all findingsTo present the work to industrial collaborators, as advised by the supervisorsTo report on a regular basis about the progress of the work at meetings with the academic leadersTo provide support to the PhD, MSc and project students within the academic leaders’ research groupTo contribute to the smooth running of the academic leaders’ research laboratories and, facilities with other users and technicians within the laboratories.

About you

The successful candidate should hold or about to receive a PhD in Material Science, Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. They will have a strong background in experimental catalyst design, characterisation and testing. Prior knowledge of mechanochemsitry, polymer chemistry and physics, plastic chemical recycling is especially welcomed.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please upload a CV and cover letter with your application on the University of Surrey website.

For informal enquiries please contact Dr. Hui Luo (hui_luo@surrey.ac.uk) and Dr. Iman Mohagheghian (i.mohagheghian@surrey.ac.uk).

The University of Surrey reserves the right to close this vacancy early or extend the end date based on Volume and Calibre of applications.

Closing Date: 12 Jun 2025

Area: Research & Teaching

Salary: £37,174 to £39,355 per annum