Job Description

Research Fellow (110610-0725)

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Location
University of Warwick Campus, Coventry
Department
School of Engineering
Position Type
Fixed Term
Duration
Fixed Term Contract until 30th October 2026
Salary
35,116 - 45,413 per annum
About the Role

For informal enquiries, please contact Soroush Abolfathi (Associate Professor) Soroush.Abolfathi@warwick.ac.uk

We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis, even where a position is advertised as full-time, unless there are operational or other objective reasons why it is not possible to do so.

This is a full time, fixed term contract 11-14 months (contract length will depend on agreed salary due to restricted budget), ending no later than October 2026.

We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Engineering to contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable low carbon plastic waste management and recycling solutions.


In this project the post holder will develop novel algorithms and methods for analysis of plastic data collected from the GIVO Centers, including data collected on waste arising, plastic collection, sorting, mechanical recycling, and off-takers. The principal focus will be to develop digital tools that can robustly and automatically extract and analyse information/datasets about post-consumer municipal plastic waste management.


The post holder will study GHG emissions and perform an LCA for GIVO plastic waste management and recycling solutions with the aim of enhancing the sustainability of GIVO solution and reducing the footprint of plastic waste management.


The post holder will also work collaboratively with the project partners based in the UK and Nigeria to apply and test these new tools to make important advances in producing detailed datasets on plastic waste journey from collection to recycling and reuse, enhancing and scaling of the GIVO solution. In the longer term we hope this work will support and inform efforts to develop robust solutions, strategies, and policies to facilitate transitioning towards a Circular Plastic Economy (CPE) in the sub-Saharan Africa region.


This post is based at the School of Engineering, University of Warwick campus, but the successful candidate will be required to make regular trips to Nigeria, sometimes for extended periods to participate in field work, workshops, etc.; so, readiness to embark on long haul travel is essential.



About You
We are seeking a highly qualified individual with a minimum 2.1 honours degree in a relevant subject and has a PhD (or be near completion) in a relevant discipline (Engineering, Data Science, Sustainable Development, Life Cycle Assessment), with a strong background in data analysis and modelling.


You will demonstrate a strong track record in research, with evidence of quality outputs in a relevant field, alongside a developing profile with the potential to publish and produce high-calibre research contributions. You will undertake independent and collaborative research and will be expected to write up your research for publication.


You will be expected to demonstrate proven quantitative and qualitative research skills, specifically in the areas of Sustainability and Life Cycle Assessment.


Experience with LCA software such as OpenLCA and GaBi, supported by a publication record in LCA, plastic recycling technologies, and circular plastic economy, is desirable.


Knowledge of coding and machine learning techniques for modelling and the analysis of large datasets will be considered an advantage.


Exceptional communication skills are essential, with the ability to articulate ideas effectively in English, both orally and in writing.


You will be expected to deal with any management/ administration problems that may arise from the project and produce and present regular project reports ensuring that the project objectives and deadlines are met.


If you have not yet been awarded your PhD but are near submission or have recently submitted your PhD, any offers of employment will be made as Research Assistant on level 5 of the University grade structure. Upon successful award of your PhD and evidence of this fact, you will be promoted to Research Fellow on the first point of the level 6 of the University grade structure.


For further information regarding the skills required for this role please see the personal specification section of the attached job description.



About the Department
The University aims to promote work life balance for all employees and the School of Engineering will consider a range of possible flexible working arrangements in order to recruit the best candidate.


The School of Engineering is a great place to work: we offer competitive salaries on a grading structure that provides annual incremental progression, plus a generous annual leave entitlement (30 days per annum for this role, plus four customary shut down days over Christmas, and eight statutory bank holidays). As well as competitive salaries we offer attractive pension schemes with excellent employer contributions, and various staff recognition awards. We are also committed to helping you to fulfil your potential through a range of career development opportunities.


The School of Engineering is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter, which recognises work undertaken to address gender equality, representation and progression for all staff working in an academic environment. The School currently holds the Athena SWAN Gold award and the University holds an Institutional Silver award. Further information about the work of the School in relation to Athena SWAN can be found at the following link; Athena SWAN - School of Engineering - University of Warwick



About the University
Born in the 60s with a mindset of boldness, imagination and collaboration, the University of Warwick is a world-leading research-intensive university with the highest academic and research standards. We're one of the world's top universities, ranked 67th in the world and 10th in the UK, with 92% of our research assessed to be 'world leading or internationally excellent'*.


You'll be joining a diverse, innovative and globally connected community committed to igniting real world progress. Here at Warwick, we offer you opportunities to follow your ambitions as long as you bring the energy and determination to succeed.

QS World University Rankings 2024

Research Excellence Framework 2021


To find out more about us visit our website.



How to Apply

CLOSING DATE: Sunday 3rd August 2025 at 23:55 (BST)

To apply, submit an application form by the closing date.


Please plan for any potential delays as you will not be able to submit an application form past this deadline (even if you opened the form at, say, 23:30).


You will have to attach a CV and a cover letter.

Your

CV

should include your employment history (including your most recent employment), your education history, and any other relevant experience. Your

cover letter

should explain your

motivations for applying

to the role. It should also explain, using examples, how you meet each of the

essential and desirable criteria

detailed in the Right to Work in the UK
If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK and/or are seeking sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa, please follow this link which contains further information about obtaining the right to work in the UK.