Duration:  Fixed term contract until 31st March 2028

About the Role 

Informal Queries

• For informal queries, please contact Chaoying Wan (Professor) at Chaoying.Wan@warwick.ac.uk.

This role sits within the Functional Polymer Nanocomposites group. We are focused on delivering high‑quality, internationally competitive research in high performance elastomers, nanocomposites, reactive manufacturing and advanced characterisation technologies.

Working closely with the research teams, the postholder will undertake cutting‑edge polymer research, contributing to the development of sustainable elastomer manufacturing technologies.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on advanced polymer and nanocomposites, focusing on polymer chemistry and reactive processing. Managing and contributing to research programmes, supporting the development of early‑career researchers. Publishing high‑quality research outputs.
• Contributing to the Department’s research strategy, including reporting on research progress and supporting REF‑related activities.
• Liaising with industry partners to understand industrial challenges and priorities and supporting the development of externally funded research through grants and contracts.

This is a research‑focused role within an internationally recognised university environment, offering the opportunity to contribute to high‑impact polymer science research while building a strong academic profile through publication, collaboration, and external engagement.

About You  

You will hold a PhD in polymer chemistry, or polymer science and engineering, with a strong grounding in polymer synthesis, processing and characterisation. You will bring expertise in elastomers, or nanocomposites, with knowledge of rubber and elastomer technologies being an advantage.

You will demonstrate a strong research profile alongside the ability to plan, deliver and communicate research effectively.

You will be able to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment, contributing positively to team‑based projects and departmental objectives. Experience of supervising students, or the potential to do so, is required, with postdoctoral or relevant industrial experience and the ability to contribute to externally funded research being desirable.

You will be committed to inclusive practice, health and safety, and active participation in departmental life, and motivated to contribute to Warwick’s mission of research excellence and impact.

Full details of the duties and selection criteria for this role can be found in the vacancy advert on the University of Warwick's jobs pages. You will be routed to this when you click on the 'Apply' button.