Research Associate (SS13638) - Bath, BA2 7AYAbout the roleVinyl plastics such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), polystyrene, and related materials underpin a wide range of high-value applications, yet their robust carbon–carbon backbones make them exceptionally difficult to recycle at the end of life. Current recycling routes are dominated by mechanical reprocessing or by high-temperature thermochemical methods that operate with poor selectivity and high energy demand. These limitations present a major barrier to achieving circularity for vinyl polymers and contribute significantly to the carbon footprint of the plastics sector.In this project, you will play a central role in the chemistry-led work package investigating the fundamental mechanisms governing photo-depolymerisation of materials such as PMMA (Perspex). You will collaborate with colleagues in the Department of Chemical Engineering (Cavitation initiated depolymerisation) and the Department of Mechanical Engineering (systems analysis) at the University of Bath.This mechanistic insight will directly inform process optimisation, reactor design, and extension of the methodology to additional vinyl polymers and mixed plastic systems. As part of a wider team, you will also interact with Chemical Engineers and Systems Analysis experts to assess potential technologies as scalable recycling concepts, contributing to a step-change in sustainable polymer chemistry aligned with Net Zero and circular-economy goals.About youPrimarily, you will work under the supervision of Dr Simon Freakley, Dr Jon Husband and Prof. Matthew Davidson and be trained in polymer science, kinetic and mechanistic studies of reaction and photo–catalysis/chemistry - building on preliminary results published in Photo-initiated solvent-mediated depolymerization of consumer poly(methyl methacrylate) without chlorinated reagents. Nat Commun 17, 1235 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-67997-7PhD in Chemistry or associated disciplineKnowledge in Photochemistry / Photocatalysis and / or (de)polymerisation chemistryBroader idea of non-thermal and non-mechanical plastic recycling or chemical recycling of plasticsExcellent oral, interpersonal and written communication skillsThe ability to work well in an interdisciplinary environmentAbility to organise and prioritise own workload to meet required deadlinesAbility to write research reports and to effectively disseminate outcomesFurther informationThis role is offered on a full time fixed term basis (36.5 hours per week for 36 months). For an informal discussion regarding the role please contact Simon Freakley at sf756@bath.ac.uk.We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.We're very proud to be a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. an accredited Disability Confident Leader; autism friendly university, committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff. What we can offer you We're continually expanding our benefits package to better support you and enhance your experience with us and the below is just an example of some of the many great benefits we offer:Employee assistance services through Health Assured, including access to the Wisdom appGenerous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balanceGenerous employer contributory pension schemesCycle to work schemeElectric vehicle salary sacrifice schemeStaff discount at Team Bath gymStaff benefits include discounted postgraduate tuition and language courses, alongside a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities such as apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning, and moreLocal discounts, including free entry to the Holburne Museum in BathA family-friendly workplace An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforceRelocation allowanceVisa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expensesFind out more about our benefits and watch the video to hear from our staff about what makes the University of Bath a great place to work as well as following us X and LinkedIn.Be Well at BathWe’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including:Staff support groups and networksA network of Staff Wellbeing ChampionsA suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thriveFind out more about being at your best at Bath. Closing Date: 05 Jun 2026 Department: Education & Research Salary: £38,784 to £46,049