Research Fellow in Instrumentation, Testing and Control

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Thursday 19 October 2023

Applications are invited for two Research Fellow positions focused on the experimental evaluation and critical analysis of a novel fail-operational steer-by-wire system. To this end, the posts centre on the design and assembly of a Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) test rig and the development of a digital twin to support failure detection and allow predictive health monitoring of the steer-by-wire system.

About the role

The posts are part of the SAFE (Systems for Autonomy in Fail Operational Environments) project funded through a (CCAV) Commercialising Connected and Automated Mobility: Supply Chain grant. The SAFE project will develop a fully redundant, fail-operational Drive-by-Wire technology platform to enable safe driver-out, on-road autonomous vehicle capability. By integrating purpose-built sub-systems, the project will create an automated vehicle capable of achieving SAE Level 4 autonomy. These safety-critical vehicle systems ensure lateral and longitudinal control, even in the event of a single-point fault or failure.

The outcomes of the project include the HiL test rig for steering systems built at the University of Surrey and the design and testing of a health prediction management system.

About you

The successful candidate will have a strong background in experimental testing, programming (MATLAB/SIMULINK) and control, and should have a PhD in a relevant discipline such as mechanical or electronic engineering. Also, experience in the following areas is highly desirable:

• Control development and implementation, including neural networks
• Instrumentation and data-logging, including communication protocols (e.g., CAN FD)
• Familiarity with HiL testing and digital twins
• Experience with real-time prototyping systems (e.g., dSPACE)

Working under the leadership of Prof Patrick Gruber and Dr Davide Tavernini, you will be responsible for the day-to-day research tasks in accordance with the project plan. This will include laboratory experimentation and data analysis, and will entail coordination of work with that of others involved in the project. Write-up of results in formal documents and contributions to the preparation of journal/conference papers and other outputs (as required) are expected.

Join our dynamic and inclusive team at the Centre for Automotive Engineering within the School of Mechanical Engineering Sciences. We actively seek applicants from all backgrounds, valuing the unique perspectives they bring to our research, which, in turn, leads to innovative solutions. We are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone is not only welcomed but also valued, respected, and supported.

Our Centre specializes in cutting-edge research areas, with a particular focus on vehicle dynamics and the control of autonomous systems. Initial contracts for the Research Fellow positions are set for a duration of 12 months, with extensions subject to thorough performance assessments, availability of project funding, and specific project requirements.

How to apply

For informal enquiries please contact Prof Patrick Gruber at p.gruber@surrey.ac.uk. Please attach a copy of your CV with your application.

Please note, it is University Policy to offer a starting salary equivalent to Level 3.6 (£32,344) to successful applicants who have been awarded, but are yet to receive, their PhD certificate. Once the original PhD certificate has been submitted to the local HR Department, the salary will be increased to Level 4.1 (£33,309).

Further details:   

For more information and to apply online, please download the further details and click on the 'apply' button above.

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