KTP Associate

When you work for the University of Central Lancashire, you’ll be part of a thriving community of talent that’s united in a common commitment to transform lives. We do this by delivering an outstanding educational experience and creating prosperity and opportunity in the communities we serve. Whatever your role, you’ll be playing a vital part in helping us achieve our vision.

About the Role:

The University of Central Lancashire is seeking to appoint a motivated graduate or postgraduate as a KTP Associate to lead a transformative project with Heyside Plastics Ltd, a business specialising in polymer extrusion and recycling. This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) offers an exciting opportunity to drive forward pioneering research aimed at enhancing polymer recycling processes, diversifying into new product lines, and supporting the company’s ambition to contribute to a sustainable, circular economy.

You will work collaboratively with academic experts and industry professionals to develop innovative approaches to polymer processing, improve product quality, advance automation, and expand the company's material capabilities. The project will involve designing, prototyping, and validating new recycled polymer products, ensuring alignment with industry standards and sustainability goals.

The successful candidate will be based at Heyside Plastics Ltd in Greater Manchester, with access to the university’s specialist research facilities and expertise. You will receive mentoring, a training budget to support your development, and have the opportunity to work towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) or equivalent professional status.

About you:

We are looking for an individual who:

• Is passionate about sustainable manufacturing and innovation.
• Has a strong background in polymer science, materials engineering, chemical engineering, manufacturing, or a related discipline.
• Can demonstrate excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
• Can work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.
• Is committed to professional development and is enthusiastic about driving real-world industrial innovation.
• Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree in either Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering or similar discipline; a Master’s degree or industrial experience would be highly desirable.

This is a unique opportunity to fast-track your career in the sustainable manufacturing sector while making a tangible impact on a forward-thinking SME. Although initially a 36-month position, Heyside Plastics sees significant potential for the successful candidate to progress into a permanent role within the company after the project concludes.

Enquiries about the role may be directed to the academic supervisor Hadley Brookes or Professor Karl Williams.

Applicants need to meet all essential criteria on the person specification to be considered for interview.

This position will be based primarily at Heyside Plastics Ltd, with support from the University of Central Lancashire.

What we can offer you:

Our people are our most important asset. We’ll encourage you to make the most of your talents and continually develop your skills and knowledge. As well as realising your career ambitions, you’ll be making a positive difference to other people’s lives. We also offer a fantastic package of rewards and lifestyle benefits – from an attractive annual leave entitlement to access to a comprehensive employee benefits platform.

We are proud to be a diverse, multicultural university. We are committed to building a truly inclusive culture where diversity is championed. Applications are particularly welcomed from individuals who will support the diversification within the University and support its development of a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

The University is committed to providing a safe environment to study, work and visit, protecting children, young people and adults at risk from harm and abuse. Our safeguarding policy and safer recruitment procedure outlines our approach, alongside other internal policies, procedures and guidance which can be found on our Safeguarding page.

Applicants applying for roles in regulated activity and that are listed as an exception under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 will be required to disclose any spent and unspent convictions and undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check at the appropriate level, the University will only ask an applicant to make an application for a DBS check if they are legally entitled to.

We are proud to share that we will soon be known as the University of Lancashire. Building upon nearly 200 years of academic excellence, this exciting new chapter reflects our commitment and ambition for Lancashire and beyond. We believe in helping people to seize every opportunity to flourish in education, at work and for life. Together, we’re here to help you achieve great things. 

Where opportunity creates success.