Part-Time Research Support Officer I or II or III

“Obtaining biochar for biomedical applications with an eco-friendly solution to exploit the unlocked potential of agricultural waste” Funded by the Italia-Malta Programme And any other projects undertaken by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. Applications are invited for a Research Support Officer (RSO) to carry out duties in relation to the BIOBIOWA Project which is funded by the Italia-Malta Programme. The RSO may also be required to work on other projects undertaken by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. Applicants must be in possession of a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree or PhD in Chemistry or a related topic. Preference will be given to candidates who have experience or knowledge in auxetics, characterisation techniques and/or molecular modelling. Good scientific writing skills and previous experience in publishing in peer-reviewed journals will be considered assets. The University of Malta is an Equal Opportunity employer. The selected candidate must be resident in Malta for the period of employment. The post is for a period up to 30 June 2027 and will entail 20 hours of work per week, or according to the availability of the successful candidate. The initial remuneration per hour, inclusive of any cost-of-living adjustment shall be €13.08 (RSO I) or €14.58 (RSO II) or €17.64 (RSO III). Candidates must upload their covering letter, curriculum vitae, and certificates (certificates should be submitted in English) and contact details of at least two referees through this form https://www.um.edu.mt/hrmd/workatum-projects by not later than Thursday, 19th November 2026. Late applications will not be considered . Further information may be obtained from https://www.um.edu.mt/hr/recruitment/projects/ and should you have any queries, please send us an email on projects.hr@um.edu.mt . Further Information The project aims to identify an alternative use for biomasses generated from agri-food production waste by transforming them, through a green and low-energy impact process, into so-called biochar. Biochar is a carbonaceous material, and its chemical structure makes it unique both as a sorbent and as a material for environmental remediation. Possible uses of biochar are for animal feed or fertilisation of soil. Further information may be obtained by contacting Prof. Joseph N. Grima at joseph.grima@um.edu.mt . The RSO may also be required to work on other projects undertaken by the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. The appointee will be responsible for carrying out research with the main duties including: Assist with sample preparation and the characterisation of biochar and nanobiochar using appropriate analytical techniques; Carry out molecular and computational modelling of biochar structures, including the generation and analysis of three-dimensional structural models and investigation of their deformation; Investigate the mechanical behaviour of biochar materials and structures, including their deformation, compressive response and energy-absorption properties, using appropriate techniques; Carry out degradation studies and analyse experimental and modelling data to investigate the stability and structure–property relationships of biochar materials; Liaise with relevant University departments, laboratories and technical staff to coordinate access to specialist equipment and support experimental activities; and Maintain appropriate experimental records and contribute to technical reports, project deliverables, scientific publications, presentations, research meetings and collaboration with project partners. The appointee will be expected to work at such places and during such hours as may be determined by the University authorities. The selection procedure will involve: scrutiny of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application); shortlisting; and an interview and / or extended interview. The post is for a period up to 30 June 2027, which will be subject to a probationary period and to the provisions of the Statutes, Regulations and Bye-Laws of the University of Malta which are now or which may hereafter be in force. Office of the University, Msida, 6th November 2026