KTP Associate – Advanced Composites / Materials Scientist (Circular Aerospace Materials)

Job Description

Organization: University of Portsmouth in partnership with AerMaven Ltd

The University of Portsmouth is seeking a highly motivated Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate to lead a strategic research and innovation project focused on the recycling and reuse of aerospace composite materials. The role bridges academic research and industrial implementation, supporting the transformation of end-of-life aerospace composites into high-value secondary materials.

This project will be conducted primarily at AerMaven Ltd’s facility in Lincolnshire, with collaboration with researchers from the University of Portsmouth’s School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, CERES, PCAMM, and the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

Project Overview

The project aims to develop scalable circular-economy solutions for aerospace composite waste, particularly carbon fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) materials. Using physio-thermochemical processing and advanced characterization methods, the project will transform beyond-economic-repair composite waste into high-performance materials suitable for secondary markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct literature and market reviews on aerospace composite recycling and circular economy solutions.
• Develop laboratory protocols for characterisation and treatment of aerospace-grade composite waste.
• Design and conduct experimental testing frameworks for reclaimed materials.
• Scale recycling processes from laboratory experiments to industrial-scale trials.
• Develop sustainable composite materials using reclaimed carbon fibres.
• Assess secondary markets including automotive, marine, sports equipment, and renewable energy.
• Produce research outputs including publications, technical reports, and project documentation.
• Facilitate knowledge transfer between the university and industry through workshops and presentations.

Candidate Profile

• PhD in Advanced Composites, Materials Science, Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Hands-on experience in fabrication and structural testing of advanced composites, particularly carbon fibre reinforced polymers.
• Knowledge of sustainable treatment and recycling methods for composite waste.
• Experience with analytical techniques such as SEM, Raman spectroscopy, or FT-NIR.
• Strong communication and leadership skills to coordinate multidisciplinary stakeholders.

Position Details

• Contract: Fixed-term KTP project (approx. 3 years).
• Salary range: £41,064 – £44,746 per year.
• Workplace: AerMaven Ltd facility in Lincolnshire with travel to the University of Portsmouth.
• Supervision: Academic team at the University of Portsmouth and industry mentors at AerMaven Ltd.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with incremental progression.
• Generous pension scheme and annual leave (32–35 days plus bank holidays).
• Training and professional development opportunities.
• Access to university wellbeing programmes, recreation facilities, and staff benefits.

This project represents a unique opportunity to lead a high-impact research initiative advancing circular economy solutions in the aerospace industry.