Job opportunity at Nottingham

http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/ENG328316

Applications are invited for a full-time Research Associate or fellow position in the field of life cycle assessment (LCA). This internationally-funded project involves collaboration with University of York/Biorenewables Development Centre, Wageningen University, Wilson Bio-Chemical, among other partners.

The aim of the project is to produce butanol and hydrogen from mixed municipal solid waste (MSW) via biochemical conversion of autoclave-treated waste. The project includes the construction of a demonstration-scale production facility at York/BDC and is underpinned by key research activities developing state-of-the-art enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation processes for this specific feedstock.

Within the project, you will lead LCA activities to quantify the environmental impacts of producing transport fuels from MSW. You will work collaboratively with project partners to develop a life cycle inventory of the system, including mass and energy balances of the integrated process and assessing potential markets for deploying the technology. As part of this project, you will also work to develop “technology-neutral” and broadly applicable assessment methodologies of specific relevance to waste valorisation technologies.

Candidates are required to have a PhD (or be about to obtain) in a relevant field, with a background in mechanical or chemical engineering being particularly desirable. Experience conducting life cycle assessment studies is highly desirable for this position; however, strong candidates without this background will also be considered. Quantitative skills relevant to energy system analysis are required, while specific experience with bioenergy or waste systems is advantageous. Excellent communication skills are essential.

This full-time position will be offered on a fixed-term contract for a period of 18 months in the first instance, with the opportunity to extend this contract subject to funding availability and by mutual decision. The position is available to start immediately.

Informal enquiries may be sent to Dr Jon McKechnie (jon.mckechnie@nottingham.ac.uk). Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

For more information, please visit: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/jobs/currentvacancies/ref/ENG328316