EBRI
| Location: | Aston University Main Campus |
| Salary: | ÂŁ41,064 per annum |
| Grade: | Grade 08 |
| Contract Type: | Fixed Term (12 months) |
| Basis: | Full Time |
| Closing Date: | 23.59 hours BST on Thursday 28 August 2025 |
| Interview Date: | To be confirmed |
| Reference: | 0563-25 |
| Release Date: | Wednesday 06 August 2025 |
The Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) is a leading research centre at Aston University, within the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. EBRI is home to a dynamic team of researchers at various career stages, working collaboratively to address real-world challenges in energy and bio-based product development.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join an exciting multidisciplinary project focused on transforming biosolids from the water industry into valuable solid products. The project is funded by OFWAT and led by a well-established UK water company.
This is a full-time position and provides an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative and supportive environment, engaging with a diverse team of researchers, academic staff, and industry professionals. We are committed to the development of early career researchers and offer a range of professional development opportunities, including mentoring and shadowing.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research on the physico-chemical characterisation of biosolids from wastewater treatment processes (e.g. sewage sludge and digested solids), as well as biochars produced via pyrolysis.
- Follow standard procedures such as the EBC Sample Preparation (ISO 13909-4, DIN 51701-3) and the EBC Standard 10.4E for preparation and characterisation of solid samples.
- Carry out chemical characterisation of various organo-mineral fertilisers derived from biochars, supplied by a project partner.
- Following soil trials, support the development of analytical protocols for the sampling, storage, transport, and analysis of land-applied organo-mineral fertilisers.
- Collaborate with Aston investigators, the project lead, and partner organisations to organise project meetings and contribute to the preparation of reports and other materials to communicate research outcomes.
You will have expertise in analytical/environmental chemistry or environmental chemical engineering and a keen interest in sustainable resource management. You should be comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Strong communication, organisational, and documentation skills are essential for this role.
What we offer:
- Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
- Excellent training and development opportunities.
- A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University closure days.
- Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
- Great family-friendly policies.
- On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
- Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.
This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role.
Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Further details:
Job Details
University Information
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk
