EBRI
Location:
Aston University Main Campus
Salary:
£38,784 to £39,906
per annum
Grade:
Grade 08
Contract Type:
Fixed Term
(30 months)
Basis:
Full Time
Closing Date:
23.59 hours BST on Sunday 12 July 2026
Interview Date:
To be confirmed
Reference:
0815-26
Release Date:
Friday 12 June 2026
Applicants are invited to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) position to join CIRCARB, a multi-partner, Critical Mass research programme focused on defossilising plastics, chemicals and construction materials by replacing fossil-derived carbon with biogenic and captured carbon feedstocks.
The post holder will join the Microbial Biotechnology & Bioprocessing group as part of the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) at Aston University. The role will focus on developing circular bioprocesses to valorise biogenic food-waste streams, into medium-chain-length polyhydroxyalkanoate biopolymers and co-products. These materials will be used to formulate and characterise bio-based sustainable packaging materials.
The successful applicant will hold a PhD qualification, or be close to completion of a relevant PhD, in biotechnology, biochemical engineering, microbiology, industrial biotechnology, or a related discipline.
Essential hands-on skills include experience in microbial cultivation, molecular biology, bioprocess development and bioinformatics. Experience in hybrid chemical-biological conversion of waste-derived feedstocks would be valuable.
Strong organizational, communication and collaborative working skills are important, as the post holder will work within a multidisciplinary consortium involving academic and industrial partners. Knowledge of laboratory safety, good research practice and data management is essential. The ability to quickly develop new technical expertise, work across disciplinary boundaries and contribute to project milestones and deliverables within tight deadlines is highly desirable.
For informal enquiries about this position, you can contact Dr Alfred Fernandez-Castane at
[email protected] .
What we offer:
Aston University is a dynamic and 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 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 is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.
See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
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
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
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
[email protected]