Contract Type: Fixed Term for 30 months (subject to contract)

We are thrilled to offer an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate to join the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC).

NAPIC is a £38m entity (including a £15m UKRI investment) to lead the UK’s Alternative Protein Knowledge and Innovation ecosystem. NAPIC’s vision is to make alternative proteins mainstream for a sustainable planet. The centre is led by the Universities of Leeds, Sheffield, Imperial College London and the James Hutton Institute, in collaboration with over 100 national and international partners. NAPIC is a cohesive pan-UK centre poised to revolutionise the UK’s agri-food sector by harnessing our world-leading science base through a co-created alternative protein strategy across the Discovery → Innovation → Commercialisation pipeline to support the transition to a sustainable, high growth, blended protein bioeconomy. NAPIC features four integrated activity streams: research to address innovation challenges; a national alternative protein knowledge base; workforce of the future; and accessible Innovation facilities.

This position, based at the University of Sheffield, requires expertise in alternative protein processing and characterization, with a focus on achieving the textures needed for alternative food and feed products. You’ll actively contribute to collaborative projects with NAPIC’s industrial partners, gaining hands-on experience with real-world impact. Additionally, you’ll join a vibrant community of NAPIC researchers, working together to drive forward the alternative protein sector and shape the future of sustainable food systems.

The School of Chemical, Materials and Biological Engineering at the University of Sheffield is a leading hub for cutting-edge research, education, and innovation, tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From combating climate change and energy poverty to advancing energy storage, affordable medicine, sustainable agriculture, novel materials, and green manufacturing, we are driving solutions for a better future. Our expertise is recognized nationally, with Materials Technology and Bioengineering & Biomedical Engineering ranked among the UK’s top 10 by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. As a leader in research commercialization, we’ve successfully spun out several companies in the past two years, including ReNewFood Ltd and Evolutor Ltd, demonstrating our commitment to turning groundbreaking research into real-world impact.

What We Offer:

• 41 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A commitment to work life balance including, flexible working opportunities and hybrid working where possible.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development, with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support, support for those going through the menopause, experiencing fertility treatment and having a baby, paid leave for IVF treatment and more.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.