This is an exciting opportunity to join a Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) funded project focused on advancing sustainability in chemical sciences laboratories. You will play a key role in assessing current laboratory practices and contributing to the development of a practical, digital tool designed to help students evaluate the environmental sustainability of their laboratory activities.
As a Graduate Research Assistant in Sustainable Chemistry, you will review relevant literature, evaluate existing sustainability frameworks, and help identify opportunities for greener laboratory practices. You will support the design and development of a user-friendly digital tool and assist with documenting processes and preparing reports for stakeholders. The role offers hands-on research experience and professional development in sustainability and digital innovation.
We are looking for a motivated graduate with a science degree, ideally in a chemical sciences related discipline (e.g. Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science), with experience in carrying out laboratory activities and a strong interest in sustainability. The ideal candidate will have experience or familiarity with research, data analysis and digital tools and be comfortable reviewing literature and summarising findings.
You should be organised, proactive and able to work both independently and as part of a team. Strong communication skills are important, as the role involves preparing reports and presenting ideas to the project team and stakeholders. A willingness to learn new skills, including basic programming or digital tool development, and a commitment to inclusivity, creativity and problem-solving will help you thrive in this role.
School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry
Employability, practical skills and life skills – these are the three core areas of focus in the School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry at Kingston University. We live in a world where there is so much information out there about vital subjects such as cancer biology, pharmacy and sport and nutrition, but it is the real world application of these areas of study that really makes our school stand out. Join us and you will become part of a team of more than 100 academics, working across functions to provide a rich and diverse educational experience. You will be part of a group that instils the importance of critical thinking, leadership skills and the personal touch for our ambitious students.
We have invested heavily in the development of new facilities, with our laboratories providing access to ultra-modern equipment and teaching facilities in areas such as biochemistry, biotechnology, cell and molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, sport science (including biomechanics and an environmental testing chamber), chemical synthesis and analysis, pharmaceutics, specialist labs for pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical science and chemistry, a forensic scene-of-crime house and a pharmacy dispensing simulation suite.
This is a part time (27.75 hours per week, 0.75FTE), fixed term position for 3 months with a starting salary of £25,505.25 per annum (80% pro rata to £34,007 per annum).
Interviews are expected to be held on w/c 10 August 2026.
For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Gemma Shearman, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences or Dr Baljit Thatti, Head of Department of Chemical & Pharm Sciences.
Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students’ identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities.
We are a place-based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Being present on campus is important to us because it helps us to create a sense of belonging for both our staff and students. Therefore, staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week.
Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required, this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.
To apply click on ‘Apply Now’. If, for accessibility reasons, you need to apply in an alternative format, please email [email protected] or call the HR Shared Services team on 020 8417 3118.
