KTP Associate in Sustainable Polymer Chemistry

Aston University - School of Engineering & Innovation

Location: Aston

Salary: £38,000 to £40,000 per annum

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 23rd September 2025

Closes: 26th October 2025

Job Ref: 0906-25

Contract Type: Fixed Term (24 months)

Partners for Endoscopy & Aston University

In partnership with Aston University, this Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) will embed polymer chemistry expertise within Partners for Endoscopy Ltd (PFE) to develop a smart, biodegradable glove. Using electrospraying or similar techniques (e.g., forcespinning) of sustainable polymers, this innovation aims to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gloves. The glove can be peeled off or washed away, reducing packaging, improving fit, enabling on-demand use, and critically cutting clinical waste.

This project supports PFE’s strategic focus on sustainable medical technologies, offering significant commercial, environmental, and operational benefits across the healthcare supply chain.

Candidate Profile

A PhD in a relevant discipline is highly desirable due to the technical and innovative nature of the work.

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Strong academic background in polymer chemistry and materials science.
• Understanding of polymer synthesis and processing, preferably sustainable/biodegradable materials.
• Experience with material characterisation techniques.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with Aston and PFE teams.

Desirable:

• Experience in electrospraying, electrospinning, or forcespinning.
• Prototype development and formulation skills.
• Familiarity with medical device and recycling regulations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Experience engaging with stakeholders such as NHS staff or industry partners.

Main Responsibilities

• Balance sustainability with performance, user safety, and practicality.
• Navigate regulatory standards for medical and environmental compliance.
• Liaise with external stakeholders, including NHS and Ecolab representatives on the project steering committee.
• Promote the solution internally, securing necessary resources and alignment.

Personal Attributes

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Able to lead and manage time effectively.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and career-focused.
• Willingness to adopt new technologies and data-processing methods.

Benefits & Support

• Up to £4,000 for personal and professional development.
• 25 days annual leave.
• Access to mentorship, wellbeing services, and Aston University support: Health and wellbeing

Career Prospects

60% of KTP Associates are offered permanent roles by the host company after project completion.

This KTP is jointly funded by PFE and Innovate UK. It’s essential to understand the KTP model and your role within it. Learn more: www.aston.ac.uk/ktp

The Company:

Partners for Endoscopy (PFE) was founded in 2004 and supplies specialist services, cleaning equipment, and PPE to UK hospitals. Website: PFE Medical

Aston University:

You’ll work with Professor Paul Topham and Dr James Wilson, alongside PFE's senior management and an IUK Knowledge Transfer Adviser.

Location:

Based at PFE, Stoke-on-Trent, with access to Aston University in Birmingham. Some travel and flexible working may be required.

Enquiries: Email Professor Paul Topham at p.d.topham@aston.ac.uk

Explore more KTP roles: www.ktp-uk.org/jobs

Aston University is committed to the Athena SWAN Charter and offers a supportive, collaborative work environment.

As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee interviews to disabled applicants who meet minimum criteria.