Research Fellow - Polymer Recycling (109926-1224)

WMG, a world-renowned department at the University of Warwick, is recruiting a Research Fellow to advance data-driven recycling technologies for plastics.

A critical challenge in plastic recycling is the variability in recyclate quality. Despite advancements in sorting systems, processors must manage fluctuations in processability and material properties due to the diverse grades within a single polymer family. Even in closed-loop recycling of a single polymer grade, properties can vary due to degradation. Upgrading recyclates by adding virgin polymer or specific additives can mitigate some of these effects, but the process is batch-dependent, complicating the production of high-quality recyclate.

As part of the EPSRC-funded PLASTIC project (Plastics Analysis, Sorting & Recycling Technologies Through Intelligent Classification), we aim to address these challenges. The project will leverage the rheological behaviour of recycled polymers to better understand their thermo-mechanical properties. By applying machine learning (ML) principles and in-line process monitoring during extrusion compounding, we will develop a digitally enabled recycling system. This system will predict recyclate processability and properties and optimize upgrading strategies for specific specifications.

You will work within the Centre for Polymer Composites (CPC) at WMG with leading, multidiscipline academics and industry experts for impactful research.to exploit innovation and research in the field of polymer recycling, and will develop and enhance the Department's reputation, both internally and external to the University.

You will publish research of international excellence and support the team's activities in industrial consultancy. You will provide input into the development of teaching content for various programmes within the team's remit, deliver specific modules and supervise research students to doctoral level.