📊 Job Summary Table of Algae Research Associate

🌟 Job Description Summary

Join Loughborough University as a Research Associate in Algae-based Wastewater Treatment for an exciting 18-month collaborative project with universities in Tanzania and South Africa. This innovative position focuses on developing sustainable algae-based wastewater treatment systems while creating income-generating opportunities through pigment extraction for textile applications.

🎯 Key Responsibilities for Research Associate Position

• Algae Research and Cultivation: Screen and select pigment-producing algae strains suitable for cultivation under non-sterile conditions in wastewater treatment applications
• Wastewater Treatment Development: Design and implement low-cost algae-based wastewater treatment systems specifically for livestock wastes from rural Tanzanian communities
• Pigment Extraction and Testing: Extract algae-based pigments and test their effectiveness for dyeing cotton fibers under various experimental conditions
• International Collaboration: Co-host and visit project partners in Tanzania and South Africa, including extended research visits for knowledge exchange
• Research Documentation: Maintain comprehensive research records and contribute to project publications and reports
• Laboratory Management: Oversee laboratory operations related to algae cultivation and pigment extraction processes
• Quality Control: Ensure all research activities meet international standards and project requirements
• Data Analysis: Analyze experimental results and contribute to the development of scalable wastewater treatment solutions

💼 Benefits and Perks for Research Associates

• Real Living Wage Employer: Loughborough University provides supplementary payments beyond standard rates to support financial wellbeing
• International Travel Opportunities: Fully funded research visits to Tanzania and South Africa for collaborative work
• Flexible Working Arrangements: Family-friendly policies and flexible working options to promote work-life balance
• Professional Development: Access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities for academic growth
• Visa Sponsorship: Full UKVI sponsorship support for eligible international candidates
• Research Excellence: Work within world-class departments of Chemical Engineering and Water Engineering
• Collaborative Environment: Join a diverse, inclusive academic community committed to educational excellence
• Career Advancement: Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in sustainable wastewater treatment

🏛️ Company Overview

Loughborough University stands as one of the UK’s leading research institutions, renowned for its commitment to educational excellence and innovative research solutions. The university’s dedication to supporting equitable, diverse, and inclusive environments creates better futures through collaborative efforts. Located in Leicestershire, Loughborough University combines academic rigor with practical applications, making significant contributions to global challenges through research and enterprise.

The institution’s approach to algae research represents a forward-thinking solution to environmental challenges while supporting economic development in emerging markets. This wastewater treatment project exemplifies the university’s commitment to sustainable development and international collaboration.

🌍 Company Culture and Research Environment

Loughborough University fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence. The research environment encourages interdisciplinary approaches, bringing together expertise from Chemical Engineering and Water Engineering departments. The university values diverse perspectives and actively welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

The algae research team operates within a supportive framework that promotes both individual growth and collective achievement. International collaboration is central to the university’s mission, providing researchers with global perspectives and cross-cultural experiences that enhance their professional development.

📈 Career Growth Opportunities for Research Associates

This Research Associate position offers exceptional opportunities for career advancement in algae research and wastewater treatment. The role provides exposure to international research collaborations, advanced laboratory techniques, and sustainable technology development. Successful candidates can expect to develop expertise in algae cultivation, pigment extraction, and wastewater treatment technologies.

The 18-month contract offers potential for extension based on project success and funding availability. Research Associates at Loughborough University often progress to senior research positions, pursue doctoral studies, or transition to industry roles in environmental technology and sustainable development sectors.

🤝 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Loughborough University demonstrates unwavering commitment to creating an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment. The institution recognizes that diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and opinions within the community represent great strength and are essential to delivering educational excellence, enterprise, research, and professional services.

The university actively encourages applications from people from diverse backgrounds and minoritized groups, as they are currently under-represented within the academic community. This Research Associate position specifically welcomes candidates who can contribute to the university’s diversity goals while advancing algae research and wastewater treatment innovation.

⚖️ Equal Opportunity Statement

Loughborough University affirms its commitment to equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination. All qualified candidates receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. The university provides reasonable adjustments commensurate with project requirements and individual needs.

🏠 Remote Work Policy

This Research Associate position requires on-site presence at Loughborough University facilities due to laboratory work, algae cultivation requirements, and specialized equipment needs. However, the university supports flexible working arrangements where possible and maintains family-friendly policies to promote work-life balance.

International travel to Tanzania and South Africa is an integral component of this role, requiring extended research visits for collaborative work with partner universities.

📝 Application Process for Research Associate Position

1. Review Requirements: Carefully examine the Job Description and Person Specification documents available through the official vacancy link
2. Prepare Application: Submit comprehensive application including CV, cover letter, and supporting documents addressing selection criteria
3. Submit Online: Complete the online application through Loughborough University’s recruitment portal before the deadline
4. Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates will participate in interviews focusing on algae research experience and wastewater treatment knowledge

⏰ Application Deadline

Applications must be submitted by 23/06/2025. Late applications will not be considered. Early submission is encouraged to ensure all required documents are processed before the deadline.

🚀 How to Apply for Research Associate Position

To apply for this Research Associate in Algae-based Wastewater Treatment position, visit the official Loughborough University vacancy page and complete the online application process. Ensure all supporting documents clearly demonstrate your relevant experience in algae research, wastewater treatment, or related fields.

For detailed information about application requirements and selection criteria, please refer to the complete Job Description and Person Specification documents available at the official vacancy listing.

📱 Social Media Links

• Loughborough University LinkedIn
• University Twitter/X
• Official Facebook Page

❓ FAQs and Additional Information

Q: Is visa sponsorship available for international candidates?

A: Yes, Loughborough University is a UKVI Sponsor and can provide visa sponsorship for eligible candidates.

Q: What is the duration of international travel requirements?

A: The role includes extended research visits to Tanzania and South Africa, with duration determined by project needs and collaboration requirements.

Q: Are there opportunities for contract extension?

A: While this is an 18-month fixed-term contract, extension possibilities depend on project success and continued funding availability.

Q: What laboratory facilities are available for algae research?

A: The position provides access to state-of-the-art facilities within the Chemical Engineering and Water Engineering departments.

For additional questions about this Research Associate position in algae-based wastewater treatment, please contact the university directly through the official vacancy portal.

Source: Loughborough University Vacancies

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