JOB TITLE: RESEARCH ASSOCIATE : SUSTAINABLE PLANT-BASED MATERIALS FOR MEDICAL DEVICES

Location: Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh
Contract: Full-time, Fixed-Term for 6 Months
Salary: Grade 6 (£30,805 - £36,130) / Grade 7 (£37,174 - £46,735) per annum
Holiday Entitlement: 33 days annual leave plus 9 buildings closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday)

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Research Associate to join our interdisciplinary team working on the development and evaluation of sustainable, plant-based materials for use in medical devices. This exciting role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with real-world impact, collaborating closely with industry partners and supporting the transition to more sustainable healthcare technologies.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and conduct scientific and engineering experiments on plant-based materials for medical manufacturing.
• Evaluate biocompatibility, mechanical robustness, durability, and sterilisation of developed materials.
• Collaborate with industry partners (Indenti Ltd, Tily Blooms Ltd, Glossbrook Engineering Ltd, and ABHI) to validate materials for medical applications such as dental aid devices and home insemination syringes.
• Develop and maintain risk assessments and COSHH documentation in line with institutional safety procedures.
• Present research findings at partner meetings, workshops, and scientific conferences.
• Prepare and edit scientific publications and contribute to knowledge dissemination.
• Engage in outreach activities, including the Edinburgh Science Festival, school visits, and public engagement events like “Borrow a Researcher.â€�
• Support experimental facility maintenance and liaise with external collaborators.
• Participate in broader research group activities, including industrial engagement and project planning.