Research Fellow or Research Assistant in Composites for Space Structures

Fixed Term Contract for 18 months

Research Fellow: £37,337 to £40,347 per annum  

Research Assistant: £28,203 to £32,039 per annum  

We welcome applications from those interested in this exciting post with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out research work in the development, manufacturing and design of composites for space applications.

About the Role

You will develop and deliver composites manufacturing technologies for the space industry, focusing on optimising space-based carbon fibre optical reflective mirrors and advancing additive processing of continuous fibre composites. The role involves collaborating with industry partners, contributing to joint developments, and translating research into manufacturing and simulation technologies for end users. You will work closely with external partners and University colleagues, reporting research results to project partners and preparing dissemination outputs, including journal publications and presentations at international conferences.  

About You

You should have knowledge and experience in composites and finite element analysis. Experience in composites manufacturing, process simulation, and testing of composite components for space applications is beneficial but not essential. Strong technical communication skills and the capability to clearly summarise achievements to brief colleagues and project partners is also essential. As Research Assistant, you must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or similar field. As Research Fellow, you must hold or be close to completion of a PhD or have equivalent experience in Materials, Manufacturing, Composites or similar field. A developing track record of publishing in high quality journals is also expected as a Research Fellow.

About Us

Cranfield Manufacturing and Materials offer world-class and niche post-graduate level research, education, training and consultancy. We are unique in our multi-disciplinary approach by bringing together design, materials’ technology and management expertise. We link fundamental materials research with manufacturing to develop novel technologies and improve the science base of the manufacturing research. Our capabilities are unique, with a focus on simulation and modelling, and sustainability. They also include work in composite manufacture, metallic glasses, nano-materials, low energy casting, thermal barrier coatings and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM).

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here.

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here.

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply                                     

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Dr Alex Skordos on (E): a.a.skordos@cranfield.ac.uk.

To apply please click above 'Apply' Button. For further details please contact peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk quoting 4923.

Closing date: 13 October 2024

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