Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Aeroacoustics and Aerodynamics

The role

This ATI-funded project (ADEPT) aims to demonstrate a range of novel technologies applicable to the propeller aerodynamic and aeroacoustic design, led by Vertical Aerospace and in close collaborations with several other academic and industrial partners in the UK.  It focuses on developing suitable experimental and numerical tools to improve the design and evaluation processes for the next-generation propellers, dedicated to electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles for Urban Air Mobility applications. The project provides a unique opportunity to work closely with industrial and academic partners to make a tangible impact to the UAM community, contributing to future, sustainable aviation. You will be joining a team of highly motivated researchers that consists of experts from the University of Bristol and Vertical Aerospace.

What will you be doing?

This Research Associate role has a computational focus. As a successful candidate, you will be guided by the team to utilise numerical tools of a mixed-fidelity, including analytical/semi-analytical models to Lattice-Boltzmann method, to examine propeller in single and multi-configurations. Working closely with a Research Associate in experimental work, you will implement a robust, fast-running engineering model for evaluations of the propeller performance with the results and knowledge from both numerical and experimental studies, applicable for different propeller design and operating conditions. The results are expected to significantly improve our understanding of propeller aerodynamics and aeroacoustics for UAM vehicles, laying the basis for next-generation propeller design tools. The outcomes of the project are expected to be published in the field’s top journals.   

You should apply if

• You have a PhD in aerodynamics (or a related field) or working towards one, you have good knowledge in experimental aerodynamics and aeroacoustics and in computational fluid dynamics, and some research experience in applying numerical methods and solvers (such as Finite Volume, Lattice-Boltzman, Vortex-Lattice methods).
• You have well-developed data post-processing and analytics skills using Matlab, python or similar programming language and are proficient in code development.
• You are self-motivated, can communicate effectively with partners, and are willing to take initiatives to work in a collaborative environment.

Additional information

For informal queries please contact:

Professor Mahdi Azarpeyvand, m.azarpeyvand@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: Fixed term until 31/03/2026

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Wednesday 8th October.

Interviews are expected to take place on Monday 20th October.

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