Research Development and Innovation Project Leader (KTP Associate) (FS0383R)

Fixed term, full time position for 31 months at a salary of £30,000 to £32,000 per annum and performance bonuses. There is the possibility of a permanent position at Photocentric thereafter

Photocentric Ltd is a specialist chemical manufacturer of a wide variety of photopolymers that can harden in visible light curing technologies. We have a core business based on being innovative in photopolymers, for we received the Queen’s Award for Innovation. We have applied our innovations to craft and office stamps, flexographic printing and 3D printing. We commercialized the first 3D printer based on an LCD screen and manufacture the Liquid Crystal range of 3D printers. https://photocentricgroup.com/

We offer an exciting opportunity to work on the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project ‘3D printing of functional light curable resins and low adhesion coatings. This ambitious 31 month project is concerned with innovations in 3D printing technology, both in the development of novel, multifunctional photocurable resins and in the creation of anti-stick coatings to enhance stereolithographic printing processes. Upon successful conclusion of the KTP project, there is the potential for permanent employment at Photocentric with an attractive remuneration package. 

The project is funded by Innovate UK and Photocentric through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) award, a UK Government scheme intended to promote sustained and mutually beneficial relationships between universities and industry. This KTP is part of a national, Government-supported initiative which provides graduates with fast-track career opportunities through work on challenging projects (for more information please visit https://info.ktponline.org.uk/action/search/partnership_vac.aspx

You will be employed by the University of Hull as a Knowledge Transfer Associate whilst being based at Photocentric, Peterborough. The candidate will be fully supported by an Academic Supervisor (Dr Jia Min Chin) and a Company Supervisor (Dr Sarah Karmel). In this role, you will be offered an exciting career with the autonomy to develop and manage cutting-edge research in photopolymers, additives and coatings within Photocentric. You will be fully involved in these projects and the decisions around them. You will also have the opportunity to work on other research projects undertaken at Photocentric focusing on the development of novel daylight photopolymer resins for 3D printing. We offer an open research environment and collaborative possibilities with external partners and expect that you will fully take advantage of this environment through your creativity, problem-solving capabilities, and drive. You will also be given the opportunity to be involved in the creation of innovative, market-leading materials, which is expected to deliver significant economic and environmental benefits for Photocentric, and top-tier research publications for the university.

Within this role, you will also receive up to £5,000 for training and development to boost your expertise and skills for a successful career in academia or industry alike, as well as performance bonuses on top of the stated salary. 

We expect the successful candidate to have: 

A Masters or PhD degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Material Science or related subject;An innovative mind with proven creative success;Ability to work independently Adaptability to new areas of research Genuine interest in photopolymerization and 3D printing Experience of organic chemistry, photopolymerisation, ceramics or metals is an advantage Experience in an R&D environment within the polymer, adhesive, surface coatings or composite materials is an advantage

Specific Duties and Responsibilities of the post

Development and characterization of functional, photocurable resins for 3D printing.Identifying the technological performance of developed resins.Development of anti-stick coatings to enhance 3D printing process performance.Engagement with other employees for technology development.Delivering to defined targets within defined timescales.Knowledge transfer between University of Hull and Photocentric Ltd.Preparation and presentation of progress reports at Local Management Committee meetings.Undertaking generic training aspects of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) scheme.

Applicants are required to complete the online application form and upload a CV and covering letter.

Closing Date: 26 Nov 2018
Category: Researchers