Senior Research Fellow in Sustainable Materials

## Senior Research Fellow in Sustainable Materials: An Opportunity to Shape the Future of Environmental Innovation

The University of East London (UEL), a distinguished institution with a 125-year legacy of transforming lives, presents an exceptional career opportunity for a visionary Senior Research Fellow in Sustainable Materials. This role, situated within the world-leading Sustainability Research Institute (SRI), offers a chance to lead groundbreaking research and contribute significantly to a globally recognized hub of innovation. If you are an emerging or established research leader driven by a passion for tackling environmental challenges and advancing sustainable materials science, this position is designed for you.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:

• Impactful Research Environment: Join an institute where 92% of research is recognized as world-leading, internationally excellent, or internationally recognized. The SRI is at the forefront of developing eco-efficient technologies and addressing critical environmental issues across three interconnected themes: Blue/Green Infrastructure, Sustainable Materials & Resources, and Sustainable Society.
• Leadership Opportunity: This is a strategic appointment to lead and expand a high-impact research program. You will play a pivotal role in reinforcing the newly launched London Sustainable Materials Lab (LSML), fostering vital connections between researchers, practitioners, and industry partners.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The role offers the chance to collaborate across disciplines, addressing real-world environmental challenges. You'll be working within a dynamic and interdisciplinary institute that is actively shaping environmental innovation.
• Career Development and Mentorship: You will have the opportunity to supervise and mentor research staff and PhD students, including a fully funded studentship attached to this role. This is a chance to nurture the next generation of researchers in sustainable materials.
• Prestigious Institutional Recognition: UEL is recognized as the University of the Year for Teaching Quality in the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. Furthermore, it ranks 1st in London for Student Experience and 3rd in London for Teaching Satisfaction, highlighting a commitment to excellence that permeates all its endeavors.
• Global Reach and Influence: Contribute to research that has local, national, and global impact. You will represent SRI at national and international research forums, solidifying UEL's position as a leader in sustainable materials research.
• Supportive Benefits Package: UEL offers a competitive salary (dependent on experience) and a comprehensive benefits package, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Commitment to Inclusion: UEL is a proud advocate for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, holding Stonewall membership and Athena Swan awards. They are dedicated to closing the diversity pay gap and are a disability confident employer, valuing all applications and providing reasonable accommodations.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Research Leadership Track Record: Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong track record of high-quality publications, demonstrable success in research leadership, and experience in developing and delivering funded projects. Your vision, expertise, and drive to advance sustainable materials science will be paramount.
• Funding Acquisition Skills: A key aspect of the role involves securing external funding from diverse sources, including UKRI, EU programs, industry, and charitable bodies. Applicants with a proven ability in this area will be highly valued.
• Cross-Disciplinary Engagement: The ability to build and nurture cross-disciplinary collaborations is essential. You will need strong communication skills to engage confidently with academic, industry, and policy stakeholders.
• Contribution to Institutional Goals: This role is integral to meeting UEL's REF, KEF, and research growth objectives. A commitment to contributing to consultancy, knowledge exchange, and strategic initiatives across the university will be expected.
• Specialized Expertise: While a wide range of sustainable materials specialisms are welcomed, particular interest is placed on expertise in areas such as bio-based materials, circular economy, novel materials from waste resources, and materials engineering for low-carbon societies.
• Commitment to Sustainability Values: A deep-seated commitment to equality, diversity, sustainability, and responsible research practices is fundamental to this role and the ethos of the SRI.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to not only lead cutting-edge research but also to shape the future of sustainable materials within a supportive, ambitious, and well-resourced institute. If you are ready to make a significant impact and advance your career at the forefront of environmental innovation, we encourage you to explore this compelling opportunity. Interviews are anticipated to take place in mid-January 2026.