Research Associate

About the role

Here at the University of Bath, we are looking for a Research Associate to join us working on the exciting AM4CMS programme a major international research initiative.

The AM4CMS programme initiative is focused on revolutionising thermal management through additive manufacturing (AM) and generative design.

Its primary application is the development of advanced two-phase CO2 cooling systems for CERN’s Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) detector, a flagship experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). 

CMS operates under extreme thermal and spatial constraints, requiring innovative cooling solutions to maintain detector performance during its upgrade programme.

CO2 is an environmentally friendly refrigerant with excellent thermophysical properties, but its adoption in high-energy physics and other sectors is limited by the complexity of manifold design and manufacturing. 

Conventional methods cannot reliably produce the intricate geometries required for stable two-phase flow under low temperatures (< –40?°C) and high pressures (>180?bar). AM4CMS addresses these challenges by integrating generative design algorithms, advanced fluid modelling, and metal AM processes to create optimised manifold architectures tailored for CMS requirements.

The Research Associate position is central to delivering the experimental capability underpinning the programme.

Over two years, the Research Associate will design, manufacture, and commission a bespoke CO2 cooling rig during the first 12 months, based primarily at the University of Bath with extended secondments to CERN.

The second year will focus on fluid modelling and experimental validation and involve collaboration with CERN and the University of Bergamo, working closely with a PhD student who will integrate these insights into generative design workflows. 

The role offers access to world-class facilities, including CERN’s LUCASZ cooling infrastructure, and the opportunity to contribute to CMS operations during secondments.

This is a unique opportunity to advance cutting-edge research in additive manufacturing, thermofluid systems, and high-energy physics, with significant potential for impact across aerospace, energy, and healthcare sectors

Further Information

This role is offered on a full time (36.5 hours per week) two year fixed term basis from March 2026 to March 2028

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Alexander Lunt on ajgl20@bath.ac.uk

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.

A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant, if a suitable applicant cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD has been awarded.

The successful candidate will collaborate with leading experts across Bath, CERN and the University of Bergamo, supported by technical staff and embedded within the DDR8 community.