Bio-Composite Materials Engineer; KTP Associate

Organisation/Company LIVERPOOL JOHN MOORES UNIVERSITY Research Field Engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 23 Feb 2026 - 00:00 (UTC) Country United Kingdom Type of Contract Other Job Status Full-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

Fixed term for 30 months

School of Engineering, Liverpool John Moores University in partnership with A-SAFE Ltd

30-month fixed-term, in-person post based primarily at A-SAFE HQ, Elland, West Yorkshire, with regular liaison with LJMU (Liverpool).

Starting salary - £38,000 per annum

Plus a £4,000 travel and personal development budget, as well as management and leadership training provided as part of the KTP.

This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project between LJMU and A-SAFE Ltd aims to develop a world-first structural bio-composite for use in impact-resistant safety barrier systems. The associate will lead the technical development of bio-composite materials, ensuring their suitability for industrial use through experimental validation, modelling, and manufacturing integration. This is a unique opportunity to lead impactful R&D in sustainable engineering within a commercial setting, while receiving academic and professional development support..

Job role includes:

• Lead research into natural fibre-reinforced bio-resins and develop composite formulations
• Carry out physical testing, analysis, and validation of bio-composite structures
• Develop and validate material models and performance predictions using simulation tools
• Integrate materials into injection moulding and extrusion processes through prototyping
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across R&D, production, and academic partners

We are looking to appoint a graduate to run this project who satisfies the following essential criteria:

• Degree (minimum 2:1) in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or related field.
• Strong understanding of composite materials and/or polymer processing.
• Experience with experimental testing, characterisation, and analysis of materials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a technically complex project.

The following criteria would be desirable:

• Postgraduate qualification in relevant field.
• Experience with fiber-reinforced materials or bio-based composites.
• Experience with injection molding or extrusion.
• Knowledge of sustainability regulations or environmental assessment.

Please note all of our vacancies will beclosed to applications at midnight on the advertised closing date, unless otherwise stated.