Research Associate in Composites Mechanics

The role

This role offers an exciting opportunity to carry out cutting-edge research in the Composites University Technology Research Centre (UTC) of the University of Bristol, supported by Rolls-Royce plc.

What will you be doing?

The post holder will contribute to the development and validation of multi-scale finite-element analysis tools to predict the progressive damage evolution in composite materials, subject to a variety of loading regimes (i.e. quasi-static, fatigue and impact) and in presence of environmental effects, for example driven by temperature variation, moisture uptake and oxidation. This will entail working across the portfolio of research projects carried out by the Bristol UTC, with focus on assessing the performance and structural integrity of components with through-thickness reinforcement. The post-holder is expected to regularly report the research progress to the UTC team and to Rolls-Royce plc, as well as publishing original research papers on high-impact-factor scientific journals.

You should apply if

Candidates are expected to have a deep knowledge of the mechanics of composites and a proven ability of advanced finite element analysis for commercial FEA packages (e.g. Abaqus Standard/Explicit, LS-Dyna), ideally with experience of through-thickness reinforcement. Past involvement with industrially led research projects is also highly desirable.

Additional information

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 31/03/2028

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on Thursday 12th March.

For informal queries please contact:

Prof. Stephen Hallett (Stephen.Hallett@bristol.ac.uk) or

Prof. Giuliano Allegri: (giuliano.allegri@bristol.ac.uk)

Interviews are expected to take place on 25/3/26.

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.

Available documents

• ACAD108491 - Research Associate in Composites Mechanics - JD.pdf
• Faculty of Science & Engineering Further Particulars 2024-25.pdf

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