Postdoctoral Research Associate - SEASTARS

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Department of Engineering, with a focus on digital twin modelling for marine engines and propulsion systems involving different decarbonisation technologies, as well as the development of AI-driven decision-making tools for optimising low-carbon marine powertrain designs. This position is part of the Horizon Europe project SEASTARS, which aims to transform maritime sustainability by integrating cutting-edge emission-reduction and efficiency technologies into four retrofit and four new-build vessels ope rating across inland, short-sea, and high-seas shipping routes.

The project seeks to deliver industry-relevant tools that enable optimal design and operation of greener vessels, backed by real-world demonstrations. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of multi-disciplinary modelling, advanced AI algorithms, and decision-support tool development. Responsibilities will include programming, analysing and interpreting data, and contributing to innovative solutions that support maritime decarbonisation. Additional duties involve supporting research funding proposals, engaging in licensing or spin-out activities, and enhancing the public and commercial impact of the research.

This post is fixed term on the Horizon Europe SEA STARS project, e.g. the funding is available from 01/07/2025 for a fixed period only; the project is time limited and will end on 31/12/2027.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

Qualifications

• A good first degree in an Engineering related subject.
• A PhD (or be close to submission) in Marine, Mechanical, Thermal Engineering or Computer Science.

Experience

• Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
• Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
• Demonstrable ability to present research papers at international conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
• Experience in developing engines and/or fuel cells models in GT-Power.
• Experience in using MATLAB/ Python/Siemens Simcentre to develop AI-assisted programme and models for powertrains and propulsion systems within th e transportation and energy sectors.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
• Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Desirable Criteria

Experience

• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
• A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
• Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
• Experience in developing cryogenic hydrogen storage/compressor/pump models and conducting experimental cryogenics studies.
• Experience in working with industry partners and other internal or external parties to maximise the research impact and establish new research collaboration.

Skills

• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.

Contact Information

Prof Dawei Wu, MOL Professor of Maritime Energy Systems

Email: c/o eng.sra@durham.ac.uk

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

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