R220792 - Research Associate

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EBRI
Location:  Aston University Main Campus
Salary:  £35,333 to £37,474 per annum
Grade:  Grade 08
Contract Type:  Fixed Term (24 months)
Basis:  Full Time
Closing Date:  23.59 hours GMT on Wednesday 14 December 2022
Interview Date:  Monday 16 January 2023
Reference:  R220792
Release Date:  Monday 21 November 2022

Applications are invited from candidates with relevant experience for a 24-month full-time Research Associate position in the Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals Research team within Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI). EBRI is one of Aston University’s flagship research institutes and is part of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences. The successful applicant will join a research institute that boasts of a vibrant team of experienced and young researchers, exploring various aspects of energy, bioenergy and sustainable chemicals. This role involves the development and operation of a bench-scale rig for the continuous upgrading of pyrolysis bio-oil to produce liquid hydrocarbon fuels within the kerosene and diesel fuels range. In addition, the upgraded fuels will be tested using a dedicated engine to determine combustion and emission characteristics. The successful applicant will join our Aston team as part of the consortium to deliver the IUK PyroPower Africa2 (PPPA2) project funded by Innovate UK. The project involves involving several academic and industrial partners.

The successful appointee will carry out laboratory-based investigation on catalytic upgrading of bio-oils produced from the pyrolysis of agricultural residues in Nigeria by the lead project partner, using a rig to be developed during the project. results from this work will be used to develop a process model for potential scale-up. The main objective is to produce a biokerosene component that meets Nigeria’s household kerosene (HHK) standard. The role will also involve detailed analytical characterisation of catalysts, feedstock and reaction products, mass and energy balance calculations and process optimisation.

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 are committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter http://www.ecu.ac.uk/equality-charter-marks/athena-swan/ , recognised by a silver award, and we are a Disability Confident Employer Level 2. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, 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

As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk .