Research Fellow, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering

Organisation/Company UNIVERSITY OF SURREY Research Field Chemistry Engineering Chemistry Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 6 Oct 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country United Kingdom Type of Contract Other Job Status Part-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Applications are invited for a Research Fellow to join the Surrey Circular Economy group at the University of Surrey (part time, fixed term contract up to Jun 2027). The position will be based within the school of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering and contribute to a feasibility study for digital material intelligence for a circular space infrastructure.

The post will be based within the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (SCCE) at the University of Surrey, the post holder will have the opportunity to interact with the extended groups within the Surrey Circular Economy research teams as well as partners from collaborating Universities and industry. At Surrey, we adopt an integrated approach that combines experimental studies, multi-physics and data-driven modelling, explainable AI, and techno-economic analysis to advance the application of digital technologies.

Digital Material Intelligence for Circular Space Infrastructure: A Feasibility Study

This feasibility study will explore whether digital material intelligence can support a circular economy for space infrastructures. As a short-term feasibility study, we will design and populate a minimal, high quality database that links satellite components, fabrication materials and orbital environments. Using a small number of representative test cases, we will trial Machine Learning-based predictive methods to estimate material condition and indicative reuse potential.

The work will clarify data availability, technical requirements and stakeholder needs, de risking future investment in a larger research and innovation programme on digital tools for end of life recovery and extended use of satellite hardware.

About the SEEC and University of Surrey

SCCE is internationally recognised for its research strengths in electrochemical engineering, digital twins for clean energy systems, carbon capture and utilisation, and the circular chemical economy. You will join a vibrant and collaborative research environment, with strong interdisciplinary links across engineering, computer science, and sustainability research. SCCE also benefits from close ties with the Surrey Research Park, home to over 100 innovative companies and start-ups, providing unique opportunities for industry collaboration and technology translation.

The University of Surrey is set on a modern, green campus in Guildford, a historic town offering excellent schools and amenities. The campus is just 35-40 minutes by train from central London and within easy reach of Heathrow and Gatwick airports, making it an ideal base for both professional collaboration and high quality of life.

Candidate profile

Candidates are expected to meet the following requirements

• PhD (or near completion) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience of Machine Learning-based predictive methods.
• Familiarity with AI/machine learning techniques for optimisation and surrogate modelling.
• Experience of working in multi-partner or industry-collaborative projects.

This position is initially for a duration of up to 8 months (up to Jun 2027) with possibility for further extension. The preferred start date would be on the 2nd November 2026.