Polymer Processing Engineer (KTP Associate)

We are seeking an ambitious engineer to join Robert Gordon University (RGU) as a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate. This full-time, fixed-term 27-month project, delivered in collaboration with Scotmas Group Limited and co-funded by Innovate UK, will establish a pilot-scale microporous membrane extrusion capability to manufacture dual-layer, catalyst-embedded membranes for an on-demand chlorine dioxide (ClO2) membrane reactor/generator. The post is based primarily at Scotmas premises in Kelso, Scottish Borders, with regular engagement at RGU.

The KTP Associate will lead the design, specification, sourcing and commissioning of the extrusion pilot line, translate prior project data into manufacturing specifications, and run optimisation and validation trials. The role offers extensive practical and formal training, mentoring from industrial and academic supervisors, and a £4,500 personal development budget. There may also be opportunities to publish results with the project team.

Purpose of post

To lead the design, specification, sourcing components and building of a microporous membrane extrusion pilot line that can reliably manufacture dual-layer, catalyst-embedded membranes with the required physical properties for an on-demand ClO₂ membrane reactor generator. The Associate will use data and learning from previous work and embed RGU know-how into a repeatable, scalable manufacturing process with appropriate monitoring, safety and documentation to enable future commercialisation.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver the project objectives as detailed in the KTP project workplan.
  • Use data from prior project work to define membrane performance targets (pore structure, thickness, permeability, mechanical strength, catalyst loading/retention) and translate them into manufacturing specifications.
  • Lead the conceptual and detailed design of a pilot-scale microporous membrane extrusion line, including process calculations (throughput, pressure/temperature window, die design, residence time, drying/sintering/curing requirements).
  • Specify, source and integrate key subsystems (feed/mixing, paste extruder, die/tooling, heating/cooling, take-up, inline thickness/weight measurement, safety interlocks), working with suppliers and workshops.
  • Develop and optimise the membrane formulation and extrusion parameters to achieve consistent microporosity and embed/secure the catalyst layer without loss or degradation.
  • Plan and execute test and validation trials (DoE where appropriate), including membrane characterisation (porosity/PSD, permeability, tensile properties, thickness uniformity, catalyst distribution and leaching) and process capability assessment.
  • Implement digital monitoring and control (instrumentation, data logging, control limits) to ensure safe, repeatable manufacture and to support scale-up decisions.
• Produce robust SOPs, risk assessments, and technical documentation, and transfer knowledge/training to ensure the capability is embedded for post-project operation and future commercialisation.
• Maintain an up-to-date project plan and provide regular progress reports.
• Deliver presentations to immediate project team members and other stakeholders.
• Any other duties that may be reasonably assigned by the Academic Supervisor and Company

To create a compact system producing chlorine dioxide on site using a two-layer membrane with an immobilised catalyst that does not run off under reactant flow. The approach reduces hazardous chemical deliveries and by-products, lowers costs, and supports cleaner water, safer food processing, and hospital hygiene with less environmental impact.