Research Technician in Microplastics

Imperial College London - School of Public Health

Placed On: 11th November 2025

Closes: 11th December 2025

Job Ref: MED05500

Location: In-person, White City campus.

About the role:

Are you an analytical chemist with interests in plastic pollution? We’re looking for a skilled individual to join the Microplastics Team at Imperial College London. The post-holder will analyse plastic signatures in air pollution and estimate exposure concentrations, feeding into a wider, multidisciplinary and multi-partner project exploring the potential for microplastic exposure to trigger lung disease.

What you would be doing:

You will prepare and analyse ambient particulate matter samples for plastic using pyrolysis-GC/MS. This will involve preparing analytical standards and calibration curves, preparing samples, and running them whilst contributing towards instrument maintenance and operation. You will identify peaks and extrapolate to concentrations, and process and analyse raw and converted data. You will provide scientific and technical support to the wider team and across projects as required.

What we are looking for:

An independent and diligent individual who is motivated to pursue research questions with precision, with a strong background in analytical environmental chemistry and familiarity with microplastic pollution.

What we can offer you:

• The opportunity to learn about microplastics and be part of cutting-edge research with clear public health impacts.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

The Microplastics Team is within the highly collaborative and interdisciplinary Environmental Research Group, with expertise ranging from aerosol science to toxicology to epidemiology to policy, centred on environmental health.

This is a full-time post (35 hours per week).

This role is for a fixed-term contract for 12 months, with potential to extend.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Dr Stephanie Wright – s.wright19@imperial.ac.uk