KTP Associate (Fixed Term)

Location: University Park

Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Associate in improving operational efficiency of Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP)

University of Nottingham (UoN) invites applications for a (Hygrothermal Design Engineer KTP Research Associate) with a 25 month fixed contract in building services engineering or mechanical engineering to join our exciting collaboration with Bublshop Limited based in Gillingham, a forward-thinking company specialising in low-carbon heating and renewable energy technologies. This is an exceptional opportunity in using AI to control passive thermal enclosure system to improve the operational efficiency of Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP). You will report to the Managing Director and work closely with Bublshop's Engineering team.

Fully supported by academic experts within the University’s Department of Architecture and Built Environment, you will lead a strategic project to develop an AI-driven passive-hygrothermal solution that enhances ASHP’s efficiency and reliability.

As an enthusiastic researcher, this is a career-development opportunity for you to manage a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). Through the KTP, you will deliver a high-profile, commercially strategic project that will enable Bublshop to gain an understanding of the integration of passive thermal enclosure system with AI-optimized control strategies to revolutionise performance, making ASHPs more effective and efficient in variable climates, targeting a minimum 20% improvement in Coefficient of Performance and a 50% reduction in defrost cycle frequency.

You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to develop commercially viable, innovative solutions and communicate complex information to a variety of audiences: within Bublshop, its customers and stakeholders. An awareness of commercial drivers and previous industrial experience is essential.

We are seeking a motivated and entrepreneurial researcher who thrives in a collaborative environment.

You will have:

1) Post-graduate level, ideally qualified with a PhD (or close to completion) in Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Control Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields.

2) Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle real-world technical and commercial challenges.

3) As a people-orientated individual, you will have the ability to influence and engage collaboratively with Bublshop, UoN and other stakeholders. As a proactive person, you will have the passion and desire for creating something new and be enthusiastic and motivated to organise your own time effectively and have a flexible approach to prioritising work tasks.

4) Prior industrial experience and an awareness of commercial drivers are highly desirable.

Throughout the KTP, you will be fully supported and mentored to nurture your talent. You will have your own budget of £2,000 pa for training and CPD, helping you develop your skillset and reach your personal and professional career goals.

UoN is committed to providing competitive employment packages whilst supporting the well-being of its staff to help them reach their full potential. As an employee of UoN, you will have access to the University’s resources and a range of benefits and rewards, including staff discounts, travel schemes and an attractive pension scheme.

KTP is a UK Government scheme promoting sustained and mutually beneficial relationships between universities and industry.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to by email to: xiaofeng.zheng@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

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