SMART Partnership Associate (Design and Sustainable Fabrication)
Join to apply for the SMART Partnership Associate (Design & Sustainable Fabrication) role at Cardiff Metropolitan University.
To help achieve the goals of our Welsh Government funded SMART Partnership project, we’re looking for a Research Associate to support an exciting collaboration between Cardiff Metropolitan University and Wastesavers Charitable Trust Ltd. This role will play a key part in driving market development for Wastesavers through upcycling, skill sharing and networking within the circular economy.
The role will be based at Wastesavers (primary Newport and across South Wales) and Cardiff Met Llandaff campus.
Responsibilities
* Support the business and research project through design and fabrication for the circular economy in consultation with the Principal Investigator.
* Conduct individual and collaborative research activities including workshops with Wastesavers staff and volunteers, network meetings and practical design work.
* Develop and apply design research techniques under supervision and self‑directed, using both traditional and digital tools.
* Use initiative and creativity to solve problems and deliver practical and business outcomes that support a sustainable business model.
* Present research progress and outcomes to project stakeholders and contribute to reports, publications and dissemination activities.
What you’ll bring
* Excellent organisational skills and a passion for sustainable design.
* Creativity and analytical thinking, with the ability to apply traditional and digital design techniques.
* Strong research skills to shape a sustainable retail model for the circular economy.
* Knowledge of research methods and sustainable fabrication to deliver impactful outcomes.
* Initiative and problem‑solving skills to identify opportunities for market innovation.
* Clear communication of complex ideas through reports, presentations and workshops.
* Proficiency in IT tools, including Microsoft Office, Adobe CC, CAD/CAM software and digital media platforms.
* Evidence of design‑led commercial and/or research projects.
* Willingness to travel between campuses and company sites.
Benefits
* 20 days plus bank holidays, with an additional day per year served up to 5 days, plus corporate volunteer days and birthday leave.
* Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
* Family‑friendly policies.
* Opportunities to learn and develop skills with library and digital services.
* Excellent sports and fitness facilities with subsidised membership.
* Free family access to specialist wellbeing support provider, Health Assured.
Why join Cardiff Metropolitan University?
We are a values‑based University that supports inclusion, community spirit and career development.
Contact
For more information about the role please contact Jon Pigott jpigott@cardiffmet.ac.uk or Aleksandra Janusiewicz, Recruitment Advisor AJanusiewicz2@cardiffmet.ac.uk. All applications must be submitted online.
The person specification will be used as a tool for shortlisting; please use this information when writing your application. You can find useful hints and tips about how to apply on our Application Guidance page.
Employment details
* Seniority level: Entry level
* Employment type: Full-time
* Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
* Industry: Higher Education
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