1034-25 - KTP Associate in Bio-Inspired Construction Materials

Location: Miles Macadam Limited, Malpas Station, Hampton, Cheshire, SY14 8LU

Salary: £35,000per annum

ContractType: Fixed Term(9 months)

Basis: Full Time

ClosingDate: 23.59 hours GMT on Sunday 26 October 2025

InterviewDate: To be confirmed

Reference: 1034-25

ReleaseDate: Thursday 09 October 2025

This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project aims to reformulate Miles Macadam's specialist grouted macadams to improve their environmental sustainability whilst ensuring the fundamental performance characteristics are maintained or advantageously improved.

The main focus is to use replacement materials to improve performance and quality of grouts whilst reducing carbon emissions and which can give better supply security by cutting out imports of high emission products (e.g., PFA).The knowledge to be transferred includes the characterisation of biochar, the process and optimisation of biochar production to be used in cementitious materials, and the process of using biochar in grout applications.

This project propels the company's innovative plan to reduce the carbon impact of road surfacing which aligns with Miles Macadam's mission statement as a carbon neutral organisation committed to carbon reduction targets.

This is an exciting opportunity for candidates who seek to develop their career in the innovation area of sustainable materials.

Candidate Profile: PhD in Civil Engineering or Materials Science, specialising in construction materials. Alternatively, candidates with an MSc and one to two years of relevant research experience in pavement or construction materials are also eligible. Experience in laboratory testing and the implementation of field trials is desirable.

Skills/ experience required include:

• Demonstrated expertise in testing asphalt and concrete material design, testing and evaluation.
• Familiarity with the structure and operation of businesses within the industry to effectively transfer and embed knowledge into the company.

Main responsibilities:

• Evaluate the potential of replacing cement and PFA in grouts with sustainable materials, including biochar from diverse feedstocks and synthesis methods, and assess the performance of these novel formulations.
• Collaborate with the university and industry partners to design and develop innovative manufacturing processes for sustainable grout substitutes.
• Plan and execute experimental programmes, including laboratory testing and field trials.
• Engage with clients to understand their preferences and conduct real-world trials to evaluate the performance and acceptability of the sustainable grout products.

Personal attributes:

• The ability to work within a cross-disciplinary project team
• Leadership and maturity of communication and organisation skills to deliver the KTP project and ensure it achieves agreed milestones and objectives
• Ability to work independently and use initiative
• Strong desire to pursue innovative approaches and pathways
• Ability to work closely with all stakeholders and establish an effective knowledge transfer process in the company

60% of our KTP associates are being offered employment by the companies at the end of the KTP.

This is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) funded by Miles Macadam Limited and Innovate UK .

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) are collaborative, three-way partnerships creating positive impact and driving innovation by linking various businesses with the UK's world class knowledge bases to deliver innovation projects led by skilled graduates.

It is essential you understand how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you secure this position. To learn more please visit:

The Company: Operating since 1970, Miles Macadam has gained an enviable reputation as a market leader in the manufacture and installation of advanced Grouted Macadam systems. Engaged in the manufacture and supply of liquid asphalt grout and cementitious grout for the use in the supply and laying of grouted macadam road surfaces, as well as the provision of laying operations and associated civil engineering works. As a carbon neutral organisation, Miles Macadam aims to deliver reduced carbon, or carbon neutral surfacing schemes.

Aston University:You will work in a project team with Professor Mujib Rahman, Daniel Jozef Nowakowski and Sam Adu-Amankwah, and the Senior Management Team at Miles Macadam Limited with the support of the IUK's Knowledge Transfer Adviser.

Location:You will be based predominantly at Miles Macadam Limited in Hampton. And will also have access to facilities at Aston University in central Birmingham. Some travel to key clients may also be required.

Some travel to key clients may also be required.

We are a disability confident employer and guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual's lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit:

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at