Job Title: Research Associate in Sustainable Textile Colouration
Grade and Salary: Grade 7 Spine Point 28 - £37,694 pro rata
Location: Scottish Borders Campus, Galashiels
Contract Type: Part Time (15 hours per week) Fixed Term (6 Months)
Role Description
This part-time Research Associate post is funded through the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Centre (IBioIC) and forms part of a collaborative project led by Brilliant Dyes Ltd in partnership with Heriot-Watt University. The project aims to develop and validate a sustainable colouration process for textile materials.
Working under the supervision of Professor Danmei Sun, the Research Associate will contribute to experimental work related to the colouration and characterisation of textile materials. The role involves using facilities at both the School of Textiles and Design and Brilliant Dyes Ltd, working closely with an industrial partner, and participating in collaborative research activities.
This position offers an excellent opportunity to engage in pioneering research at the interface of industrial biotechnology and sustainable textile manufacturing, including contributions to publications, patent applications, and future funding proposals. The postholder will join the Sustainable Materials and Textile Innovation cluster at Heriot-Watt University, a vibrant research environment focused on advancing sustainable solutions for the textile industry.
This part-time role can also be arranged as a job share between two individuals.
Start Date: 5th January 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Carry out experimental work on the colouration and characterisation of textile materials.
2. Prepare and pre-treat fabric samples and conduct eco-friendly colouration experiments.
3. Use laboratory facilities and equipment at Heriot-Watt University and Brilliant Dyes Ltd.
4. Analyse experimental data critically and accurately.
5. Collaborate closely with Brilliant Dyes Ltd, including sample exchange, data sharing, and participation in project meetings.
6. Contribute to project reporting, publications, patent applications, and future funding proposals.
7. Work independently in planning and conducting laboratory work while contributing effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Education, Qualifications and Experience
Essential Criteria
8. BSc in Textile Technology, Textile Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline.
9. Hands-on experience in textile testing and characterisation techniques.
10. Ability to plan and conduct laboratory work independently.
11. Strong analytical skills and ability to critically evaluate experimental data.
12. Excellent communication and organisational skills.
13. Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Desirable Criteria
14. Previous research experience related to textile colouration and finishing.
15. Familiarity with standard textile testing and characterisation methods.
16. Knowledge of sustainability assessment methods, including eco-efficiency and life cycle thinking in textile processing.
17. Experience working collaboratively with industrial partners.