Heriot-Watt University in conjunction with Helia Photonics Ltd have been awarded a Knowledge Transfer Partnership grant to fund a Research associate for the development of a novel route to pigment dispersions. We are looking for a polymer/surface coating chemist to work in this joint project. The position will involve the synthesis and characterisation of chain extended polyurethanes, and their use in the manufacturer of pigment dispersions.

The candidate should have a good honours degree or Masters degree in Chemistry. Experience in polymer synthesis and polymer characterisation techniques is desirable. The salary range is in the region of £18,000 to £23,000 pa

Download application packs from http://www.hw.ac.uk/hr/f_appointments.php.

Closing date: 7th February 2007

For application details contact

Human Resources, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS. Tel: 0131 451 3475 (24 hours)

Introduction to Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

Mission: “To strengthen the competitiveness and wealth creation of the UK by the stimulation of innovation in industry through collaborative partnerships between the science, engineering and technology base and industry”

Objectives of every Knowledge Transfer Partnership

• to facilitate the transfer of knowledge and the spread of technical and business skills through an innovation project

• to provide company-based training for graduates in order to enhance their business and specialist skills

• to stimulate and enhance business relevant research and training undertaken by the knowledge base

Background

‘Knowledge Transfer Partnerships’ are an extension of the highly regarded and long established TCS scheme, which is sponsored by eleven Government bodies. A Knowledge Transfer Partnership enables companies of any size to access additional scientific, engineering or management expertise from universities and research organisations and to import new techniques and technologies into their businesses to:

· Improve existing products

· Develop new products

· Streamline a manufacturing process;

· Improve logistics processes; or

· Strengthen strategic marketing capabilities

Around 900 companies - of all sizes and in a very wide range of sectors - are currently participating in Knowledge Transfer Partnerships. It supports the training of about 1000 graduates and involves almost every UK University.

Introduction to Company

Helia Photonics supplies critical thin film coating processes to the semiconductor optoelectronics community, particularly laser diode manufacturers and provides bespoke coatings products for a variety of precision applications. The company is currently engaged in the preparation of optical coating but now has the opportunity to diversify its activities into a novel route to pigment dispersion using chain extended polyurethanes. The Knowledge Transfer Partnership The project objectives are as follows:

To develop a novel polymer system for use in the packaging industry. Polyurethanes prepared from aliphatic diisocyanate and a variety of polyether diols have been identified as suitable candidates. A set of polyurethane polymers will be synthesised, their chemical composition tailored to display the specific chemical and physical properties necessary for applications. Synthesis of best performing polymers will be scaled up for commercial production and performance evaluated in selected customer field trials.

The work on the project will be carried out at Helia Photonics in Livingston and will involve regular visits to the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University. The graduate undertaking the work is referred to as the KTP Associate or the Associate.

Introduction to Heriot-Watt

Heriot-Watt is a vibrant, forward looking University offering a high quality learning experience and a welcoming and friendly environment. With an international reputation for innovative education, enterprise and leading edge but practical research, it is one of the leading UK universities for business and industry. Often referred to as Scotland's international university, Heriot-Watt has two major student campuses in Scotland - Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders - and a campus in Dubai.

School of Engineering and Physical Sciences

The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences includes the disciplines of Chemistry, Physics, Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Chemical Engineering. The School enjoys an international reputation for its research and its close connection with the professional and industrial world of science, engineering and technology.

Employment Details

The KTP Associate will be employed by the University on a 24 month contract, and will be based full time at Helia Photonics in Livingston. Although both an academic and an industrial supervisor supervise the project, the Associate will need to have the capacity to operate and manage the project on a day-to-day basis. Therefore strong personal skills, self-motivation, and the ability to plan and organise time are required. The position carries considerable responsibility. The Associate will report directly to the senior management team, therefore good presentation and communication skills are also desirable. As is a good honours degree in Chemistry or related subject.

The KTP Associate will undertake the NVQ in Management (Level 4) as part of the project – with modules and courses being provided centrally. In addition the Associate will be encouraged to undertake a higher degree based on the project.

Throughout the project the Associate will spend considerable time communicating with clients, potential clients and suppliers and will therefore require excellent interpersonal and communication skills. The Associate must be prepared to travel to visit clients and attend three residential development courses throughout the project. The Associate will be expected to contribute to conference and journal papers.

In return, the position offers the Associate the following benefits:

· a planned programme of training courses

· the support and resources of the University

· a challenging and rewarding job, with real responsibility

· the potential for good career development with the company at the end of the scheme

· the possibility of registering for a higher degree with the University

· the opportunity to make important and tangible improvements in a small but dynamic company

· competitive pay and working conditions

For further enquiries about the post, please contact:

Mr Cliff Coles, Helia Photonics Ltd, tel 01506 414800 or e-mail cliff.coles@helia-photonics.com