Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Nonlinear Aeroelasticity

The role

We are seeking a motivated interdisciplinary researcher to join the University of Bristol, as part of an industrially funded project in the field of Nonlinear Aeroelasticity. This exciting role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research to obtain methodologies, tools and processes for nonlinear aeroelastic stability analysis used for novel design and certification purposes.

The research aims at developing experimentally validated models for nonlinear aeroelastic systems in the presence of freeplay. The work will involve developing mathematical models to describe the nonlinear dynamics of two experimental aeroelastic rigs and conducting numerical and experimental bifurcation analysis to explore their nonlinear behaviour. The research will also involve conducting wind tunnel testing at the University of Bristol wind tunnel laboratory.

The successful candidate will work closely with the industrial partner and with another researcher working on the experimental side of the project. This position is ideal for researchers with a passion for innovation and an interest in developing and leading novel numerical and experimental test campaigns within an academic or industrial setting.

What will you be doing?

• Developing nonlinear mathematical models for nonlinear systems (e.g. incorporating freeplay) and conducting experimental validations through a range of parameters.
• Supporting the development of the experimental aeroelastic systems and wind tunnel testing to experimentally examine their nonlinear behaviour, to establish their describing experimental bifurcation diagrams.
• Development of validated representative numerical models of the aeroelastic systems and conducting bifurcation analysis using continuation techniques.
• Undertaking technical discussions with industrial partners in the project and researchers across the University of Bristol and presenting results from this work at regular progress meetings.
• Producing technical reports to meet the required deliverables of the project.
• Disseminating the results through conference and journal papers arising from this work as appropriate.

You should apply if

• You are interested in developing a research portfolio in numerical and experimental aeroelasticity and nonlinear dynamics
• You are interested joining a world leading team in aeroelasticity and nonlinear dynamics in a project with high industrial impact.
• You have good experience in dynamic analysis of nonlinear structures and mathematical modelling.
• You have experience in the analysis and interpretation of experimental and numerical data sets.
• You have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Are a self-starter and proactive; able to define and produce new processes and procedures.
• Inquisitive nature with an interest and skills in problem-solving.
• You have experience in publishing research papers and presenting at conferences/workshops.

Additional information

For informal queries please contact:

Djamel Rezgui (djamel.rezgui@bristol.ac.uk)

Brano Titurus (Brano.Titurus@bristol.ac.uk)

To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog:

https://engineering.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/category/engineering-includes-me/

Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding until 15/8/2026

Work pattern: Full time/1 FTE

Grade: I / J

Salary: Grade I £38,249 - £44,128 per annum; Grade J £42,882 - £48,149 per annum

The grade of the role offered will be determined based on the skills, qualifications, and experience you bring to the position.

School/Unit: School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Wednesday 16th July.

Interviews are expected to take place on Monday 21st July.

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