Research Fellow, Advanced Hydrogen Powered Aircraft

Target H2 is a multi-partner and multi-university / industrial collaboration seeking to innovate design and manufacturing / assembly processes for hydrogen powered aircraft. The project will address the challenges of applying innovative research into liquid hydrogen management to the design of the structures and manufacturing / assembly processes for the on-board, cryogenic storage of liquid hydrogen on conceptual aircraft structures. The work will bring together research and engineering expertise from Queen’s University Belfast, University of Strathclyde, Cranfield University and Spirit Aerospace.

The team at Queen’s University Belfast are seeking researchers with expertise in the development of novel aircraft structures, the means by which they can accommodate hydrogen storage systems and the methods required to assemble and support them. Our approach will include traditional structural design methods as well as the use of artificial intelligence to develop novel configurations for the structural integration of liquid hydrogen storage solutions on passenger aircraft (metal and composite). The Research Fellow will join our network of collaborators to drive future innovations in technology and enhance our capabilities in advanced aircraft systems.

About the person:

Applicants will be expected to demonstrate that they:

• Hold at least a 2:1 honours degree in Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• Have, or are about to obtain, a relevant PhD in Mechanical, Aerospace, Engineering, or closely related discipline (Candidates about to receive their PhD should provide proof that their viva is scheduled within two months).
• Recent relevant experience to include:
  • Research experience in: structural Finite Element Modelling/design of aircraft structures, design and optimisation of aircraft structures.
  • A proven track record of using relevant techniques to carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretations of data as relevant to the research project.
  • Evidence of knowledge of scripting languages used for modelling or design optimisation.
  • Working effectively as part of a research team in the development and promotion of the research theme.
  • Strong publication record, commensurate with stage of career.

To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information on our website.

Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.

What we offer:

Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more at https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/HumanResources/pay-reward-and-benefits/.

Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.

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