KTP Associate – Low Carbon Recycled Masonry Products (RIG2)

Role purpose:

To lead the technical development, validation and industrial embedding of a low-carbon, waste derived masonry brick, transferring advanced materials science knowledge from the University of Plymouth into Recycle It Global Ltd through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP).
The role is central to delivering a scientifically robust, standards compliant and commercially scalable construction product, while embedding long-term formulation, testing and quality-control capability within the business.

Key responsibilities:

• Review and characterise waste derived feedstocks (filter-press cake and recycled sands)
• Design and optimise brick formulations using low carbon and alternative binder systems
• Conduct laboratory testing including mechanical, durability, physical and microstructural analyses
• Design and execute statistically robust experimental programmes
• Validate performance against relevant British Standards (BS EN 771-1, BS EN 772)
• Translate laboratory findings into pilot- and plant scale manufacturing trials
• Optimise pressing, curing and production parameters within operational constraints
• Develop and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality control protocols
• Embed analytical methods and testing workflows into RIG’s operational processes
• Liaise with academic supervisors, business supervisors and operational staff
• Prepare technical reports, data summaries and evidence for Local Management Committees
• Support market positioning, customer engagement and early commercialisation activities
• Contribute to academic and professional dissemination where appropriate

Supervision and working arrangements:

• Based primarily RIG Corp, Plymouth and Newquay sites (with regular access to University of Plymouth facilities)
• Approximately 25% of time spent in University of Plymouth laboratories
• Day-to-day supervision by the Business Partner Supervisor
• Structured academic supervision from the Knowledge Base Lead and supervisors

Essential criteria:

• MSc or PhD in Materials Science, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related field
• Strong understanding of cementitious materials and construction products
• Experience with experimental design, laboratory testing and data analysis
• Ability to manage complex technical work programmes
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in both laboratory and industrial environments
• Driving License will be required

Desirable criteria:

• Experience with low-carbon or waste-derived construction materials
• Familiarity with BS EN standards for masonry or concrete products
• Experience of pilot-scale or industrial process development
• Knowledge of quality-control systems or ISO-aligned processes
• Previous industry-linked research or KTP experience

The project aims to transform waste derived filter press cake and recycled sands into a fully certified, high performance, low carbon masonry brick, creating a new circular construction product and embedding advanced materials science capability within RIG. The Associate will play a pivotal role in developing formulations, validating performance against British Standards (BS EN 771 1 and 772), scaling laboratory outcomes into plant level production, and supporting commercial readiness. You will be employed by the University of Plymouth and embedded within RIG’s technical and operations teams, with close academic supervision from leading researchers in sustainable construction materials and chemistry.