Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Electromagnetic Non-Destructive Testing

The role

The University of Bristol is seeking an ambitious Research Associate/Senior Research Associate to join its world-leading Non-destructive Testing (NDT) Research Group and contribute to a research programme - Frontiers in Electromagnetic Non-Destructive Evaluation Research (FENDER) – in collaboration with the universities of Manchester, Warwick, Strathclyde and Newcastle, and more than 25 industrial partners.

The project aims to develop novel electromagnetic sensing techniques for cutting edge industrial manufacturing and maintenance applications (e.g. metal additive, and automated carbon fibre composite manufacturing). The research will involve developing analytical and numerical modelling approaches, sensor and experimental design and instrumentation, and developing advanced data analysis techniques to provide solutions to persistent industrial application. The role will involve working as part of a research team with lots of opportunities for academic and industrial collaboration.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge applied research in next generation electromagnetic sensing technologies.

What will you be doing?

You will work as part of a collaborative academic team of researchers at Bristol and within the FENDER programme. The role covers the full research pipeline and so you can expect to:

• Designing, modelling and optimising novel electromagnetic sensors and arrays.
• Undertaking experimental development and validation of measurement systems.
• Analysing complex datasets and developing advanced data-processing techniques to support the interpretation of sensor measurements
• Publishing results, presenting at conferences, and supporting engagement with academic and industrial partners.

You will also have the opportunity to contribute to mentoring students, public and industrial outreach activities, and supporting broader group and programme-level activities.

You should apply if

We welcome applicants who can demonstrate a capacity for high‑quality research, innovative problem solving and collaborative working. You should bring:

• Knowledge of NDT/NDE, electromagnetic or other wave‑based sensing methods.
• Expertise in modelling and advanced analysis of complex datasets (e.g. using MATLAB, Python, COMSOL or other).
• Practical aptitude for experimental design, instrumentation, or implementation.
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research.

Experience with array design, sensor prototyping, or quality‑assurance/validation techniques is advantageous but not essential.

We are committed to inclusive hiring and encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every desired criterion but can demonstrate capability, creativity, and drive.

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 05/03/28

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 10/05/2026

Shortlisting is expected to take place on 11/05/2026

Interviews are anticipated to take place between the 18th and 19th May.

For informal queries please contact: Robert Hughes, +44 117 455 2616, Robert.hughes@bristol.ac.uk

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