"Research Associate in Manufacturing of Sustainable Microcapsules"

University of Bath - Chemical Engineering

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a skilled and motivated Research Associate, with an interest in working at the interface of biopolymer chemistry and process engineering.

This project aims to develop an innovative continuous manufacturing process for biodegradable cellulose-based microcapsules to replace fossil fuel-based plastic microcapsules used in a wide range of personal and consumer products responsible for polluting the environment as part of the SCHEMA HUB.

Microcapsules are used in a wide range of personal care and consumer goods where they provide added value to products. However, they contribute heavily to plastic pollution in our oceans and soil, damaging the environment and ending up in the human food supply chain with potentially damaging health effects.

This is a collaborative project with Naturbeads ltd, a company that manufactures biodegradable microspheres.

The project will involve:

• Functionalising cellulose feedstocks to for stable capsule walls
• Fabricating microcapsules in a continuous process, e.g. using membrane emulsification
• Investigate capsule formulation, stability and controlled payload release.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A PhD in biopolymer chemistry, preferably cellulose chemistry.
• Knowledge of biopolymer chemistry, functionalisation and physicochemical characterisation. Specific expertise on cellulose is desirable but not essential.
• Prior knowledge of microcapsule fabrication and formulation is desirable but not essential.
• Prior experience or a demonstrable interest in working at the interface of biopolymer chemistry and process engineering and a willingness to learn.
• Good organisational and presentation skills.
• The ability to work well in an interdisciplinary environment.

Further information:

This position is offered full time, fixed term for 18 months from June 2026. Part time working and/or some degree of flexible working may be possible and if interested in applying on this basis you should make this clear on your application form.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Professor Davide Mattia on d.mattia@bath.ac.uk.