New Functional Polymers to Enable Recycling

Recycling, re-use and remanufacture of materials are becoming ever more important as part of the drive towards a circular economy. There is an excellent opportunity to join the research team of a recently appointed EPSRC Manufacturing Fellow at the Chemistry Department, University of Sheffield. New functional polymers will be investigated which not only target high performance but also enable recycling of materials, thereby enhancing sustainability by providing much improved environmental outcomes.

As part of this effort, the PhD project will investigate new materials with functional groups forming dynamic bonds. This work will involve the synthesis, characterization and properties of new monomers, (pre)polymers, and polymer networks – including organic functional group transformation, step-growth & free-radical polymerization. We are seeking a talented, highly motivated scientist with a passion for organic synthesis or polymer chemistry and who is determined to make a difference. The Fellowship is supported by industry and the successful candidate should have the opportunity of interaction with companies as their PhD develops. The project gives the successful candidate the chance to work on fundamental science with industrial relevance where (s)he will learn skills appropriate for a career in academia or industry.

• Applicants should have a first or upper second-class degree at BSc level in Chemistry or Polymer/Materials Science, or an MSc in a relevant discipline.
• All applicants must include a covering letter (maximum 1 side of A4) outlining their motivation, skills and experience.