Senior Innovation Research Associate in Modelling Formulated Products

The role

The University of Bristol seeks to recruit an Innovation Research Associate (InRA) for the newly established £2.8M EPSRC Network Plus “Scale Up Mathematics for Formulated Products” (SUM4Products).  The aim of the network is to build long-lasting collaborations between academic and industry partners to improve the manufacture and function of formulated products, such as personal care products, cosmetics, detergents, and foods.  The InRA will play a key role in the network by solving impact-driven problems posed by industry partners using mathematical and computational techniques.

The appointed InRA will join the Complex and Functional Materials Lab (CFM Lab) at the University of Bristol, led by Dr Matthew Hennessy, in the School of Engineering Mathematics and Technology.  Although formally based at Bristol, the InRA will work with academic and industry partners across the UK.  Moreover, the InRA will join a team of SUM4Products InRAs located in Edinburgh, Birmingham, and UCL.  The University of Edinburgh is currently recruiting for their SUM4Products InRA role, and candidates are welcome to apply to both positions (separate applications should be submitted).

This post is open-ended, supported by fixed-term funding for 24 months, with a negotiable start date - ideally on or before 1 March 2026.

Please note: The role-holder is expected to work on campus at least one day per week, unless they are visiting collaborators as part of their research projects

What will you be doing?

Key activities for the appointed Innovation Research Associate will include:

• Designing and delivering collaborative research projects that address real-world challenges posed by industry partners, using advanced mathematical and computational modelling.
• Actively contributing to the SUM4Products network, including shaping and participating in events such as the annual conference, study groups, and triaging workshops - all aimed at fostering cross-sector innovation.
• Disseminating research outcomes through impactful channels, including peer-reviewed publications, oral presentations, open-source software, and industry-facing case studies.

You should apply if

This role is ideal for researchers who are passionate about applying continuum modelling techniques such as fluid and solid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer to tackle complex, real-world challenges in collaboration with academic and industry partners.

The appointed Innovation Research Associate is expected to have:

• A strong undergraduate degree and a PhD in applied mathematics, physical sciences, engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A proven track record of modelling-based research relevant to formulation science, including (but not limited to) fluid dynamics, continuum mechanics, soft matter, interfacial phenomena, and transport processes.
• Demonstrable mathematical and/or computational skills for solving applied research problems.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the capacity to engage effectively with colleagues from diverse technical backgrounds

Additional information

For informal queries please contact: Matthew Hennessy (matthew.hennessy@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 30/11/2027

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Sunday 23rd November 2025

Interviews are expected to take place on the 8th-9th December 2025

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