Polymer Research & Process Development - KTP Associate Crumb Rubber Ltd in partnership with Plymouth University and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Job description

Are you a polymer science / chemistry related graduate interested in researching the surface activation of polymers? Would you be motivated by developing a new production process to assist an innovative recycling company further develop its sales?

The role
We are looking for a graduate to take the lead role to develop a commercially viable manufacturing process and embed new materials capability into Crumb Rubber Ltd creating a platform for innovative product development, optimising process efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

Benefits:

• Starting salary: £20,000 - £26,000 per annum
• £4,000 budget for personal development / training
• Opportunity to gain a higher degree
• Substantial academic and industrial support from the university and the company

Person requirements

The successful applicant must be a highly motivated, innovative individual with excellent interpersonal skills to rapidly become the driving force of this strategic project. The Associate will be expected to work closely with polymers and associated materials.

Company information

Crumb Rubber Ltd started trading in 2007 following a £4 million investment in specialised equipment to re process tyre rubber into a fine high purity powder to be used as a raw material in the polymer processing industry. As part of this process Verneos Ltd was created to accelerate the development of incorporating rubber into thermoplastics. Crumb Rubber is part of the Una Group Ltd.

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
Employed by Plymouth University on a 2 year fixed term contract with the possibility of continuing employment with Crumb Rubber Ltd, you will work under the supervision of experts from the School of Marine Science and Engineering and the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

Qualification and experience requirements

You will have graduated within the last 5 years with a BSc / BEng / MEng honours degree 2.1 or above in Polymer Science, Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or Chemistry related discipline. We are particularly interested in those who have experience and commercial exposure (minimum 1 year industrial placement) of research and development within a scientific, engineering or manufacturing capacity and working in a laboratory environment. A good understanding of material selection and characterisation, chemical analysis, procedures and manufacturing process control, data acquisition and analysis is required. The ideal candidate will have experience in the field of rubber processing, rubber / polymer materials and their structures, formulation and optimisation for new product development. Excellent IT skills using Microsoft Office, investigative, analytical and report writing skills are essential to this role.

Accepted degree subjects

• materials science
• chemical engineering
• chemistry
• engineering, transport
• engineering, mechanical
• manufacturing management

How to apply

Please apply via the Apply button and search using reference number A3249