Low-Carbon and Advanced Building Materials Researcher - KTP Associate

Aston University - School of Infrastructure & Built Environment

Location: Jesmonite Ltd, Challenge Court, Love Lane Industrial Estate, Bishop Castle, Shropshire, SY9 5DW

Contract Type: Fixed Term (33 months)

This KTP project aims to position Jesmonite as a leader in sustainable composite materials. Its vision is to embed environmental responsibility into product innovation, supporting growth from creative sector applications into the expanding architectural and construction markets.

Jesmonite develops and sells advanced water‑based composite materials that are lightweight, durable, and more environmentally responsible than traditional materials like concrete and resin. Products are used for decorative concrete and plaster facades, arts and crafts, and creative industries including film set design.

Key Project Objectives

• Reformulate Jesmonite materials using bio‑based alternatives such as biochar
• Reduce the carbon footprint of products
• Build in‑house expertise in life‑cycle assessment, environmental product declarations, and sustainable manufacturing

This role offers an excellent opportunity to drive business change, applying academic theory and modelling to a commercial environment while working closely with senior academics and industry leaders.

Candidate Profile

Minimum MSc in Civil Engineering or Material Science (construction materials focus) with industry experience. A PhD is desirable.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong knowledge of low‑carbon construction materials and sustainable innovation
• Proven experience in designing, fabricating, and testing construction materials, especially cementitious systems
• Demonstrated research ability, evidenced by peer‑reviewed publications or equivalent industry outputs
• Understanding of industry operations to support effective knowledge transfer
• Strong time‑management and adherence to deadlines
• Clear and concise presentation of results to different audiences
• Ability to work independently and within a team

Personal Attributes

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills
• Ability to work within a cross‑disciplinary project team
• Leadership and organisational skills to deliver project milestones
• Initiative and innovative problem‑solving
• Ability to work closely with stakeholders and support knowledge‑transfer processes

Additional Benefits

• Up to £5,666 for personal and professional development
• 25 days annual leave
• Professional support and mentorship
• Mental health and wellbeing support: https://www.aston.ac.uk/staff-public/hr/Benefits-and-Rewards/health-wellbeing

Career Prospects

60% of KTP Associates are offered employment by the company at the end of the project. KTPs also support career progression into consultancy, change management, operations, or academic roles.

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership funded by Jesmonite and Innovate UK, linking businesses with academic expertise to deliver impactful innovation projects.

You will work with Prof Mujib Rahman and Dr Daniel Nowakowski from Aston University, alongside Jesmonite’s Senior Management Team and the IUK Knowledge Transfer Adviser. The role is primarily based at Jesmonite in Shropshire, with access to facilities at Aston University in Birmingham. Some client travel may be required.

For informal enquiries, contact:

• Prof Mujib Rahman: m.rahman19@aston.ac.uk
• Dr Daniel Nowakowski: d.j.nowakowski@aston.ac.uk

Closing Date: 23:59 GMT, Sunday 15 March 2026

Interview Date: Monday 06 April 2026