The Associate is expected to generate breakthrough ideas in the assigned area of research, as well as to carry out research in line with the project plan.

The successful candidate will conduct hands-on empirical research that embraces both experiments and modelling. Working closely with academic colleagues and external partners, you will contribute to the production of high-quality analytical outputs and publish results in leading journals. The postholder will have substantial ownership over one or more core research thrusts within Wu laboratory’s overall programme.

We are looking for a researcher with a PhD in engineering, or a related physical science discipline who has prior experience and possess a deep interest in materials science or bioengineering, a track record of research output appropriate to career stage; a proficiency in data collection and literature reviews, strong empirical research skills; and excellent communication and collaboration skills with a commitment to an inclusive, respectful research environment. 

Main duties and responsibilities 

• Conduct high-quality research to investigate, develop and design selected technologies contributing to the research related to bioengineering, advanced materials or bioreactors for tissue engineering. 
• Evaluate the possibility of applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to the selection of appropriate technologies.
• Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications, workshops, and conferences.
• Contribute to project management, reporting and deliverables.
• To support the development of further high-quality research proposals.
• To undertake such other duties as may be reasonably requested and that are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. 

Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Closing Date: 25 May 2026

Unit: Teaching & Research

Salary: £38,784 to £46,049 per annum

The Associate is expected to generate breakthrough ideas in the assigned area of research, as well as to carry out research in line with the project plan.

The successful candidate will conduct hands-on empirical research that embraces both experiments and modelling and be responsible for three stands of research (i) using industrial data (and working with industry) to model year-long module performance in the water industry; (ii) exploring whether machine learning, couple with transport informed models can be used to predict membrane fouling for specific applications such as oily-water purification or protein purification; and (iii) developing a road map for major extensions to water reuse, based in part upon elements of a digital twin. 

Previous experience could include innovative membrane module design, water purification and/or artificial intelligence-driven approaches for urban water management. However, the research programme can, in part, be tailored to prior expertise. Working closely with academic colleagues and external partners, you will contribute to the production of high-quality analytical outputs; publish results in leading journals; and support supervision of student research projects. The postholder will have substantial ownership over one or more core research thrusts within Wu laboratory’s overall programme.

We are looking for a researcher with a PhD in engineering, or a related physical science discipline, preferably with expertise in water treatment and/or membrane separation. You should possess a strong track record of research outputs appropriate to career stage; strong empirical research skills; a mindset for modelling; and excellent communication and collaboration skills with a commitment to an inclusive, respectful research environment.

Main duties and responsibilities 

• Conduct high-quality research to investigate, develop and design selected technologies contributing to potable water reuse. 
• Produce high quality reports and insights on water reuse trends for industry and policy audiences, engaging with national and international stakeholders to co-produce insights, validate findings and influence strategy for adoption.
• Evaluate the possibility of applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to the management of water reuse.
• Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications, workshops, and conferences 
• Contribute to project management, reporting and deliverables.
• To support the development of further high-quality research proposals.
• To undertake such other duties as may be reasonably requested and that are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days of bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess your eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. 

Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

Closing Date: 25 May 2026

Unit: Teaching & Research

Salary: £38,784 to £46,049 per annum

Aston University is embarking on a significant expansion of its doctoral programmes and partnerships with an ambition to double doctoral student numbers to 1,000+ by 2030. The Aston Doctoral School (ADS) is responsible for such advancement and will be known for its vitality, the rigour of its doctoral programmes and commitment to providing sector-leading, researcher-led training for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers as well as early career academics. The Doctoral School also plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of a positive research culture and environment for enhanced doctoral and postdoctoral researchers’ experience.

The Director of Operations, who will be based in ADS, will provide operational leadership for the University’s doctoral provision (PhD and Professional Doctorates such as DBA) and postdoctoral researchers (ECR) support, ensuring academic quality, student experience, regulatory compliance, and innovation, while developing national and international doctoral partnerships, including joint and dual awards. The Director of Operations will report directly to and be line-managed by the Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Enterprise (REF, Doctoral School and International Research).

The successful candidate will have experience of operational leadership and process improvement, knowledge of the external policy environment in which the Higher Education sector operates and issues pertinent to doctoral research, together with an ability to work authoritatively and respectfully with stakeholders across the University.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train. 
• The role is offered as 'dynamic working', which means working both on campus (expected on campus 3 days per week) and from home dependent on the activity. Further information on dynamic working can be found here.
• Excellent training and development opportunities. 
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers
• Great family friendly policies
• On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here 

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.
If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. 
Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.
See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa 

Closing Date: 25 May 2026

Unit: Managerial & Professional

Salary: £58,225 to £67,468 per annum