Research Fellow (KTP Associate)

We are currently looking to appoint a Research Associate (KTP) which has become available within the Sustainable Environment Research Centre (SERC) at the University of South Wales. This project will focus on the delivery of a Knowledge Exchange Partnership (KTP) project funded by UKRI and Dragon Recycling Solutions Ltd.

The main purpose of this position will be to implement an enduring process to recover critical raw materials when recycling lithium-based batteries at an industrial scale. This will involve separation, purification and analyses of the materials. The associate will have access to a professional development training package to gain skills on project and resource management, leadership, health and safety and communication skills among other aspects of professional training and an opportunity to lead a sector of the business with the potential to establish a permanent post. The work will be carried out in collaboration with an academic team in SERC at USW and a business professional team at Dragon Recycling Solutions Ltd based in Tredegar, South Wales.

The role will require a highly motivated and organized individual with self-drive, experience in handling a broad range of materials and compounds. The postholder will have experience in the characterization of materials via a range of analytical techniques. They will be expected to demonstrate a pro-active attitude, leadership and initiative towards further developing the project. This role will also require the ability to prepare detailed technical reports and contribution to publications in the area of Material Sciences, Sustainability and Battery Recycling. The primary focus of the role will entail carrying out research activities in the laboratory and implement the methodologies at the business premises.

The postholder will be based primarily at the industrial partner company site; this position will provide you with a role where you can utilize a broad range of research skills across Chemistry and Materials Sciences.

The Research Associate will be expected to work independently and as part of a team and demonstrate leadership skills. The primary role of the appointee will be to achieve the project objectives from the experimental standpoint. The Associate will also be expected to work on business analysis for the utilisation of the recycled battery materials and engage with other potential industrial partners in addition to contribute to all aspects of the research including planning, development and dissemination of the research outcomes. It is also expected that the associate will visit international industrial partners to engage with business expansion. Therefore, we seek a highly skilled, experienced researcher with a strong track record in recycling and characterization of battery or related materials.

This post is a full time, fixed-term for 24 months with the potential to become a permanent post with the industrial partner after completion of the project.

We are committed to employing a diverse workforce and creating an inclusive environment. Where colleagues can be themselves and every person is treated with dignity, fairness and respect. We actively encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and communities, especially with regards to age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, race and religion and/or belief. We benchmark our success through equality accreditations with Athena Swan, Race Equality Charter, Stonewall and Disability Confident.

We welcome applications in Welsh and English. Applications in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than those made in English.

The successful candidate will be accountable for:

1. Planning, implementing and executing agreed targets/objectives for the recycling of battery materials. This includes preparation, setting up, conducting, recording experiment data and reporting project’s outcome.
2. Analysing and interpreting results of the research, making use of advanced and current research methods and techniques.
3. Being directly involved in the preparation of publications in specialised journals.
4. Preparing reports and presenting information to collaborators, funders and research committees for the project.
5. To lead the development and implementation of procedures for the recycling of battery materials within the business partner facilities.
6. Identify, train and mentor individuals on the implementation of the improved procedures.
7. Working closely with the business partner to identify and analyse potential routes to market for recycled raw materials.
8. Participate in industry/trade fairs and conferences to disseminate the results and be involved in networking.
9. Engage with internal networks and research groups
10. To undertake continuous personal and professional development, which contribute to knowledge and skills within the topic of recycling of battery materials.
11. To comply with university policies relating to health and safety, equality of opportunity and data management.
12. Any other duties as may be assigned from time to time commensurate with the grade.