Project Development Scientist- (KTP Associate) in Bioleaching

Project Development Scientist- (KTP Associate) in Bioleaching

Project Development Scientist- (KTP Associate) in Bioleaching, based in Manchester

34 month Fixed Term appointment

Partnership between Coventry University and SE Recycling, Manchester

This collaborative project between the Coventry University Centre for Health & Life Science (CHLS) and SE Recycling in Manchester, proposes the development of a pilot bio-leaching plant to process Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery waste therefore allowing the company to recover precious metals back into the supply chain, whilst preserving the environment and preventing health-related issues for those involved worldwide.

The KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) Associate, under the supervision of both the University supervisor and the industrial supervisor, will be responsible for developing and managing the research programme and partner collaboration between Coventry University (CU) SE Recycling. This project will develop, monitor and appraise the feasibility of a pilot bio-leaching plant to process waste EV battery material at the SE Recycling premises in Greater Manchester. The role will also seek to develop new markets and applications for EV battery recovered metals.

This high profile project will provide the appointed Associate with the opportunity to work with experts in microbiology and in electrochemistry, but also the opportunity to apply technological expertise in industry. The highly innovative aspects of the project, together with the opportunity to work under joint commercial and academic supervision are an invaluable combination for someone who wants to become a future leader in the Biotechnology sector.

The package will offer, in addition to a competitive salary, excellent opportunities and a substantial budget to further professional development and support career progression. The post is supported and funded through the KTP scheme led by InnovateUK.

Applicants should have A PhD in an appropriate Science discipline, including Bioleaching, Biohydrometallurgy, Metal Chemistry, Biotechnology, Applied Microbiology or related field. Extensive experience of microbiological culture systems including bioreactors, bioleaching and/or Metal chemistry is essential. Experience of working in industry (commercial contracts; contract research; consultancy) would be an advantage. Basic knowledge of metal extraction/recovery techniques (Electro-winning) and knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques would be beneficial. The successful candidate will be proficient at project management, have good practical laboratory knowledge and skills, record keeping and IT skills, organisational skills, and the ability to formally communicate knowledge and findings to academic, industry peers and colleague.

For further information and informal enquiries please contact Professor Sebastien Farnaud ac4086@coventry.ac.uk. 

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