Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Composites Characterisation

The role

We are seeking a talented postdoctoral researcher to work on an exciting €7M Horizon Europe project involving a large consortium, offering a highly collaborative international research environment. The project aims to develop a large-scale automated material layup process in collaboration with two universities and multiple international partners across Europe, including a renowned material supplier, automation companies, system integrators, and a high-profile RTO.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the experimental characterisation of novel fibre-reinforced composite materials in both their uncured and cured states, using a range of conventional and non-conventional test methodologies. The research will investigate how material constituents, internal configurations, and processing conditions influence deformation behaviour, processability in infusion and automated layup processes, and resulting mechanical properties.

The postholder will work closely with researchers developing numerical models, providing essential experimental data to support model development. In addition, the role will involve active engagement in model validation using the generated datasets. Producing high-quality experimental data will be critical to advancing understanding of defect generation mechanisms arising from both material constituents and manufacturing processes.

Please note:

The appointments are subject to the grant being awarded and the funding being received.

What will you be doing?

• Developing experimental material characterisation methodologies
• Undertaking laboratory test for generation of data-rich experimental results
• Analysis and post-processing of experimental results for use in numerical models development
• Dissemination of results via conferences and industrial partner interaction
• Technology transfer and support to industrial users of methods developed
• Writing papers in both high impact and specialised journals
• Collaboration with colleagues, especially regarding experimental results

You should apply if

You have:

• Strong experimental skills and familiarity with material characterisation techniques for fibre-reinforced preforms
• Experience in designing new test methods to investigate the deformation and defect mechanisms of different fibre-reinforced material types
• Proficiency in using universal testing machines with advanced measurement systems
• Familiarity with modelling of fibre-reinforced preforms or finite element analysis
• Ability to perform tasks with minimal supervision

Additionally candidates for a Grade J position would be expected to have:

• Experience in composite manufacturing, including draping, resin infusion, and curing
• In-depth knowledge of deformation characteristics of different types of dry fibre-reinforced preforms
• Significant experience in modelling of fibre-reinforced preforms or finite element analysis

Desirable

• Availability to take up the post at short notice
• Willing to travel, including internationally, to attend project meetings
• Experience in industrial or collaborative research projects

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 31/10/2027

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on18/05/2026

Shortlisting will take place 25/05/2026

Interviews are expected to take place 08/06/2026

For informal queries please contact: Dr ByungChul (Eric) Kim, b.c.eric.kim@bristol.ac.uk

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