Research Associate/Fellow in Continuous Production of Terpene Esters from Flower Waste (fixed term)
Applications are invited for a Research Associate/ Fellow position to join an exciting collaborative project funded by the Supergen Bioenergy Hub.
The aim of this project is to investigate the potential of flower waste as an alternative feedstock to produce terpene-based chemicals. This will involves using flower extracts from waste flower streams obtained from Bridge Farm (horticulture farm in Spalding) as starting material to enzymatically produce terpene esters. The reaction scale-up will then be tested in a spinning mesh disc reactor. Reaction kinetics will be established for both batch and continuous systems. The experimental data will contribute to developing an initial techno-economic evaluation to test the feasibility of utilising flower waste as feedstock.
The project outcome is a first step towards decarbonising fragrance formulations for home and personal care products. The appointed candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary team and will be expected to liaise efficiently between collaborative scientists and external companies.
Candidates must hold or expect to shortly obtain a PhD, or equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or similar Science / Engineering degree and/ or have a background in terpene chemistry or a closely related discipline. Candidates must be able to demonstrate practical experience of synthesis techniques relevant to producing terpene esters, use of the relevant characterisation and analytical techniques to quantify the reaction yield and have an interest in testing reaction scale-up in a novel reactor configuration. Relevant training will be provided to address any knowledge gap related to scale-up studies. You will join a dynamic and diverse research group and will be expected to participate in research group meetings, contribute to training and mentoring PhD and MEng research project students in the group.
The post is offered on a full time (36.25 hours per week), fixed term contract until 31 July 2026. There is potential for extension subject to funding.
Further details:
Our university is a supportive, inclusive, caring and positive community. We welcome those of different cultures, ethnicities and beliefs – indeed this very diversity is vital to our success, it is fundamental to our values and enriches life on campus. Learn more about the university commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
We are delighted to share that we are the first university to have achieved Athena Swan Gold Award.
We want you to succeed in our recruitment process and have published Candidate Guidance for you to access information and support on application and interview process.
We offer a range of benefits, visit Your Benefits website to learn what we can offer you.
We welcome applications from UK, Europe and from across the globe and we want to make your transition to living in the UK as smooth as possible. Visit the Moving to Nottingham page to find out more.
Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.
View All Vacancies