Sustainable Materials and Textile Innovation Associate

University of Leeds - Professional Services - Research & Innovation Service - Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)

Location: Leeds

Salary: £35,000 to £42,500 per annum - In addition to salary, Personal Development Budget of £4,000 (Off grading structure)

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 19th September 2025

Closes: 19th October 2025

Job Ref: CSRIS1370

Contract type: Fixed term (24 months, fixed period to complete specific time limited work)

Based at MYGroup Hull Ltd., Morley Street, Hull HU8 8DN

Employment is for a fixed period of 24 months to complete specific time limited work

Do you hold a PhD or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering or a related discipline? Do you have a strong background in sustainability? Are you interested in working in a multi-disciplinary role providing innovative solutions to unique recycling challenges?

As a KTP Associate, you will take the lead in developing an innovative fibre-to-fibre recycling process for high-visibility PPE textiles at MYGroup. Working closely with experts from the University of Leeds, you’ll conduct research and hands-on experimentation across mechanical, thermomechanical, and chemical recycling methods to transform textile waste into high-quality materials.

You will contribute to the development of decision-making tools, sorting systems, and internal training resources that will embed new capability within the company. You’ll also be expected to manage project milestones, engage with stakeholders, and present your findings, giving you real-world experience in delivering impactful, sustainability-focused innovation.

MYGroup is an innovative recycling company leading the way in sustainable waste solutions. With major clients in cosmetics and clothing industries and strong investment in advanced technologies, it offers a dynamic environment where your work will have real impact. This role gives you a rare opportunity to apply your expertise to a high-profile, sustainability-focused project with clear commercial and environmental benefits.

In addition to the salary quoted there is a Personal Development budget of £4,000 available for the successful candidate.

Visa Entitlement: Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route, but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.

For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:

ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR: Dr Eleanor Scott – Lecturer in Fashion Design: Creative Knit & Innovation (University of Leeds). Email: E.L.Scott@leeds.ac.uk

COMPANY SUPERVISOR: Rebecca O’Leary – Textiles Manager (MYGroup). Email: rebecca.o@mygroupltd.com

KTP Office: James Hartford - Innovation Support Coordinator (University of Leeds). Email: J.Hartford@leeds.ac.uk