Research Officer - Nano and Microplastic Removal

About The University

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

Our stunning waterfront campuses and multicultural community make us a desirable workplace for colleagues from around the world. Our reward and benefits, and ways of working enable those who join us to have enriching careers, matched by an excellent work-life balance.

About The Role

This project will combine theoretical, analytical, and experimental approaches to investigate if biochar modified with iron oxide from steel manufacturing waste offers a viable and sustainable solution to removing Nano and Microplastics (NMPs) from water.

• In the laboratory, the use of biochar to remove NMPs will be investigated using batch and column experiments (a common method to study retention in saturated / porous media) and employing environmental conditions to mimic those present in UK river waters
• Biochar will be modified using steel industry waste, specifically iron oxide from Tata Steel Port Talbot Works, via 2 processes (Co-precipitation and Ball milling). These laboratory processes cause the biochar to become more positively charged with increased electrostatic attraction of NMPs, and, increase the surface roughness of the biochar to improve the trapping of the NMPs.
• Will capture and characterise NMPs from local water sources (the river Ogmore and downstream from the Ogmore wastewater treatment plant in South Wales) to study their removal by modified biochar and using natural water as a medium. The shape, size and chemical composition of plastics together with the degree of environmental degradation will be investigated to ensure accurate representation and to ensure the modified biochar is effective in their remediation.
• Will investigate the use of low energy and efficient processes to produce biochar, with the long-term aim of regeneration. Specifically, we will use near infra-red, ultraviolet and microwave irradiation. Here, these heating techniques will be used to bring the biochar to temperature for regeneration in a shorter timeframe using less energy than traditional pyrolysis methods that are energy intensive and costly. A separate task will test the re-use and recycling of the produced (and modified) biochars using electromagnetic regeneration, density separation and thermal regeneration techniques.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.

We have an under-representation of women in the area of research and would particularly welcome applications from women for this position. We also have an under representation of individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds and would encourage applications from these groups. Appointments will always be made on merit.

As an inclusive and welcoming workplace, we value people for their skills regardless of their background. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English.

Welsh Language Skills

The Welsh language level required for this role is Level 1 - A little. The role holder will be able to pronounce Welsh words, answer the phone in Welsh (good morning/afternoon) and use very basic everyday words and phrases (thank you, please etc.). Level 1 can be reached by completing a 1 hour course.

The University is a proud bilingual institution, our Welsh Language Strategy outlines our aspiration to promote the language and enable our staff to engage with the language as an additional workplace skill and as a gateway to new cultural and social opportunities. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English. Welsh speakers have the right to an interview in Welsh. Applicants for a role where Welsh skills are essential are expected to present their application in Welsh and will be interviewed in Welsh, if shortlisted.

Additional Information

Applications for this role will take the format of a CV submission and cover letter.

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