Research Associate

Location: South Kensington

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Emerging Structural Technologies Group within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, to work at the intersection of advanced structural engineering, sustainability, and commercialisation, and contribute to the development of a novel technology with strong potential for commercialisation and spin-out formation. The position is funded by an Impact Acceleration Award from UKRI and focuses on the design, development, and large-scale demonstrative testing of a novel sustainable flooring system with integrated vibration absorption capabilities.

What you would be doing:

You will play a key role in developing and testing a novel sustainable flooring system with integrated vibration absorption, with clear potential to progress towards a spin-out company. You will contribute to the design, development, digital manufacture, and large-scale demonstrative testing of an innovative structural system. Your work will span concept development through to experimental validation and will directly support technology translation and commercial readiness.

What we are looking for:

• A PhD in Mechanical/Civil/Structural/Design Engineering or a closely related discipline, or equivalent research, industrial or commercial experience
• Practical experience in a broad range of techniques including structural or mechanical design and analysis, and experimental testing
• Knowledge of structural engineering principles
• Knowledge of CAD, numerical analysis, and optimisation tools
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

What we can offer you:

• Hands-on involvement in an impact-driven, industry-relevant research project
• Exposure to the commercialisation and spin-out process within a university setting
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further Information

Full information and essential criteria are listed in the job description.

This is a full time, fixed term post until 28 February 2027.

Candidates who have not yet been officially awarded their PhD will be appointed as Research Assistant.

For informal enquiries about the post please contact Dr Christian Málaga-Chuquitaype – c.malaga@imperial.ac.uk.

Any queries regarding the application process should be directed to Briony Webb at b.webb@imperial.ac.uk.

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