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Synthetic Organic Chemist: Scalable Materials Production (KTP Associate)
£35,0000 to £40,000 per annum
Full time/ 15 month fixed term contract.
Your main workplace will be at Fibre Extrusion Technology, Leeds, LS27 7JU
About the Role
This project is a collaborative Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Nottingham Trent University (NTU) and Fibre Extrusion Technologies Limited (FET Ltd).
The KTP associate will be the link between FET and NTU and will work toward expanding FET’s capabilities by developing a small footprint, scalable process capable of producing
multi-Kg per day of critical feedstock materials for fibre production.
The KTP associate will work on a structured project supported by the academic team at NTU and key personnel inside FET Ltd. The key duties are expected to be:
- Evaluate literature and design routes to the desired materials as directed by FET.
- Analyse reaction mixtures, materials compositions and determine chemical purities.
- Purify reactions mixtures using a range of contemporary techniques.
- Design, construct and maintain chemical process equipment, e.g. continuous flow reactors.
- Lead training and knowledge exchange activities between NTU and FET, such as training FET staff or producing technical manuals.
- Present results as oral and written reports and presentations, at regular meeting points.
- Assess costing and impacts of the processes by considering elements such as raw materials, energy usage and waste.
- Manage competing priorities and work proactively with the various stakeholders to achieve the goals of the project.
The role will require travel between NTU and FET on a regular basis.
For more details, please take a look at the role profile. We'll still consider applications even if you don't meet every single one of the requirements, so don't be put off if you don't match them perfectly.
Interview Date: w/c 1st June 2026
About Fibre Extrusion Technology (FET)
FET designs, develops, and manufactures extrusion equipment for a range of high value textile material applications worldwide, including the manufacture of medical grade sutures. Established in 1998, FET’s major strength has always been to collaborate with customers in testing, evaluating and developing high value materials with diverse, functional properties.
About Us
This position forms part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded jointly by Innovate UK and Fibre Extrusion Technology Limited (FET). As a KTP Associate you will work within FET to develop and embed knowledge, with research and academic support from NTU. KTPs offer the ideal opportunity to apply your degree through real work and springboard your career. It includes a £2,500 training budget and 10% of your time dedicated to your own personal development. Read more about the scheme here: www.ktp-uk.org
Please note if you are applying for this position, you should have not previously been employed as a KTP Associate
If you have queries about this role, please contact Dr Darren Lee at darren.lee@ntu.ac.uk
Safe and Inclusive
At NTU, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports and celebrates the diverse voices and experiences of our students and colleagues. By championing positive wellbeing, we promote an environment where all can thrive and reach their full potential. We welcome the unique contributions that you can bring and we encourage people from underrepresented communities and backgrounds to apply to join our team.
Please note that unfortunately, this role has been assessed as ineligible for sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration points-based immigration system however, we recommend that you assess your eligibility before applying for this position. For more information visit the Government Skilled Worker visa support page. However, applications are welcome from candidates who do not currently have the right to work in the UK, but who would be eligible to obtain a valid visa via another route. Please consult the Home Office website for further information.
Please note that this role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) and successful applicants will be asked to declare any unspent criminal convictions.
