Postdoctoral Research Associate - Digital Twin Training & SME On-Boarding (DIATOMIC Y1 Extension)

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Contract Type: Fixed Term (31/03/2026)

The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPS) is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate – Digital Twin Training & SME Onboarding on a fixed-term, full-time basis. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a major regional innovation programme while working as part of a dynamic and supportive team within the Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute.

This role will be based on-campus, with some flexibility for hybrid working in line with project needs.

As a Postdoctoral Research Associate, you will play a key role in designing and delivering structured training and providing technical support for local SMEs taking part in the DIATOMIC Innovation Accelerator. Working within a collaborative multi-partner environment, you will help transfer cutting-edge Digital Twin research into practical training and onboarding activities to support SME deployment on a cloud-native platform.

Reporting to Professor Manolya Kavakli-Thorne, you will work closely with Connected Places Catapult and other regional stakeholders. You’ll also contribute to consortium meetings, coordinate milestone reporting, and support the broader mission of the Digital Futures Institute.

In this role, you will use your expertise in Digital Twins, cloud computing, and technical training to support research translation and impact generation. You will also mentor postgraduate students involved in training development and contribute to outreach and knowledge exchange activities that build capability across the West Midlands innovation ecosystem. 

How to apply – Submit an online application via the above ‘Apply’ button including a CV and a two‑page statement addressing the specification and outlining your approach to Digital Twin Training.

For informal enquiries, please contact the Program Lead for Gamification & Simulation Technology, Professor Manolya Kavakli-Thorne, at m.kavakli-thorne@aston.ac.uk.

What we offer:

• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Hybrid working is possible for this role, which means working both on campus and from home depending on the activity. Further information on hybrid working can be found here.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available.
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.  

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. 

Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.

Click here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility.

Further details:
Job Details
University Information

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, including race and sexual orientation, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format, please contact the recruitment team at recruitment@aston.ac.uk

Closing Date: 23.59 hours BST on Friday 08 August 2025

Interview Date: To be confirmed

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