Associate Professor or Lecturer - Advanced Aerospace Propulsion

We are excited to invite applications for a research-focused academic position in advanced aerospace propulsion at Lecturer (Grade 8) or Associate Professor (Grade 9) level within UCL’s Department of Mechanical Engineering. This role is based at our vibrant UCL East campus, home to the Advanced Propulsion Laboratory (APL)—a flagship hub dedicated to sustainable propulsion research across aerospace, marine, and automotive sectors.

In this role, you will lead pioneering research in hybrid-electric propulsion, hydrogen-electric and hydrogen combustion systems, electrical machines, power electronics, and advanced electrical/hybrid systems for aerospace applications. Expertise in one or more of the following areas is essential: thermofluids, turbomachinery interactions, sustainable propulsion design, electric drives, hybrid propulsion, and integration of innovative technologies from laboratory research to real-world deployment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Developing an internationally recognised research portfolio in sustainable aerospace propulsion.
• Securing significant funding from UKRI, ATI, industry, and other bodies.
• Designing and delivering advanced teaching modules at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including new aerospace modules and CPD courses.
• Supervising doctoral and MSc projects, embedding sustainability and inclusivity in the curriculum.
• Building interdisciplinary collaborations and industry partnerships to accelerate innovation.

At Associate Professor level, you will also demonstrate leadership in managing research groups, cross-sector collaborations, and contributing to departmental strategy.

About You

We would love to hear from candidates with a PhD (or equivalent) in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline. You will bring:

• A strong research record in sustainable propulsion and/or hybrid-electric systems, evidenced by high-quality publications and impact.
• Proven success in securing major research funding.
• Experience in designing and delivering innovative engineering curricula.
• A track record of supervising students and supporting early-career researchers.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

For Associate Professor level, we are looking for additional evidence of:

• Leadership in interdisciplinary research and industry engagement.
• Translational research experience progressing technology readiness levels.
• External recognition through policy engagement, invited talks, awards, or editorial roles.

Further Application Guidance

This hybrid post is primarily based at UCL East, with collaboration at Bloomsbury. Please indicate the grade you are applying for and upload:

• CV
• Publication list (top five with significance statements)
• Teaching summary (max 1,000 words)
• Five-year research strategy (max 1,000 words)
• Statement addressing selection criteria (max 1,000 words)

What we Offer

We offer an outstanding benefits package, including 41 days’ holiday, generous pension, relocation support, and family-friendly policies. Learn more at UCL Rewards and Benefits.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we celebrate diversity and inclusion. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in our workforce, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQI+ people, and—for senior roles—women. Our department proudly holds an Athena SWAN Bronze award.

Customer advert reference: B04-06560

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