Research Associate

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to January 2027

Background

This project is part of an industry-focused research programme aimed at supporting the safe and efficient operation of freight trains. The main aim is to develop a scientific understanding of the aerodynamic and dynamic forces acting on scrap loads within freight wagons under realistic operating conditions. The Research Associate will support this programme by contributing to data collection, analysis, and modelling activities that generate new knowledge on train aerodynamics and load stability. The role will involve assisting with experimental studies, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and analytical modelling to characterise flow fields, quantify peak aerodynamic loads, and evaluate conditions that could lead to scrap movement. Through these activities, the post holder will help produce the technical evidence base required to inform operational guidance and industry standards, while supporting the wider research group in delivering project outputs and advancing research excellence.

Role Summary

• Contribute to the delivery of defined research grants and projects, ensuring objectives, milestones, and reporting requirements are met.
• Apply specialist expertise in aerodynamics, CFD, and experimental methods to support project activities and advance research outcomes.
• Support the preparation and dissemination of research outputs, including contributions to high-quality publications and presentations.

Main Duties

• Conduct high-quality research by generating data through CFD simulations of train aerodynamics, experimental testing using the TRAIN Rig facility in Derby, and comprehensive literature reviews.
• Analyse and interpret research data in line with project objectives and supervisory guidance.
• Disseminate research findings through presentations, seminars, posters, and contributions to peer-reviewed publications.
• Develop, implement, and refine advanced techniques, computational models, and methodological approaches to support project aims.
• Provide technical guidance and support to research staff, collaborators, and students contributing to the project.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical or logistical challenges that may impact research progress, milestones, or deadlines.

Person Specification

• A degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline such as Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrable experience in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), including proficiency in ANSYS Workbench tools and software and the application of a range of CFD approaches and turbulence models, with particular emphasis on high-fidelity numerical modelling.
• Practical experience in collecting and analysing experimental data using PIV system.
• Practical experience in applying aerodynamic analysis techniques within the transportation sector or closely related engineering domains.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and communicate findings clearly and effectively.

Informal enquiries to Hassan Hemida, email: h.hemida@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

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