Research Associate

Sheffield University Management School, the Faculty of Social Sciences’ largest department, has achieved accreditation from the three largest and most influential business school associations: AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS. The mission of Sheffield University Management School is to use our world class research base to develop knowledgeable and employable students, promote socially-responsible work practices and have a positive impact on organisations and society throughout the world. We sustain a research-intensive environment that creates, advances and disseminates knowledge with respect to management inquiry, for the benefit of students, private and public sector organisations and society in general. Our relocation to a fully refurbished building in June 2013 provides modern facilities in which to achieve our ambitions.

We are looking to appoint a Research Associate to work with Professor Andrew Simpson on a research project analysing the potential of Closed- and Open-Loop Supply Chains to foster the transition to a Circular Economy. The Circular Economy idea pushes the frontiers of environmental sustainability by emphasising the idea of transforming products in such a way that there are workable relationships between ecological systems and economic growth; in this context, open- and closed-loop supply chains seek to extend the life cycle of products, re-utilise components, and recycle useful waste outputs, originating secondary goods markets supported by circular supply chain models. The adoption of these models is generally attractive from an environmental point of view; however, their feasibility from an economic and financial point of view has rarely been investigated, especially in the context of a free-market economy. The primary aim of the project will be developing empirical and theoretical research to understand drivers, barriers and risks to the implementation of such systems. Within this context, you will be expected and encouraged to develop your research profile through joint research activities and will have an excellent opportunity to develop your academic career potential.

You will hold a good first degree and a PhD in a relevant area (Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Environmental/ Industrial Economics), or equivalent experience. You will have knowledge and understanding of supply chain modelling techniques and experience of quantitative data analysis. We seek an outstanding candidate wishing to establish an independent academic career working at the interface of academia and industry and promoting translational impactful research. Candidates will have already demonstrated their ability to undertake research at an internationally-competitive level and have clear potential to work in an inter-disciplinary and collaborative manner.