R&D Engineer - Marine (KTP Associate) (811818)

Term: Fixed for 36 months

The Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Marine Engineering in partnership with Sand Monitoring Services Limited (SMS Integrity https://www.smsintegrity.com/) are seeking to appoint a KTP Associate to develop a predictive, sensor-light hull monitoring system for floating offshore structures in the maritime sector that combines limited real-world measurements with advanced modelling techniques.

Key objectives of the KTP are the integration of sensor data with advanced material modelling and the creation of a digital twin for predictive monitoring of structural health. The main area of focus is peridynamic modelling, a cutting-edge computational approach that allows the simulation of the innovacrack initiation, propagation, and complex failure modes in hull structures with far greater accuracy than conventional finite element (FE) methods. Unlike conventional finite element approaches, peridynamics can accurately model discontinuities and damage evolution, allowing the remote identification of critical local stress points through simulation. Structural health can be monitored and predicted in areas where sensors cannot be installed or maintained, reducing hardware costs while improving reliability.

The post will be predominantly based at SMS Integrity’s site in Aberdeen with visits to the University of Strathclyde campus.

SMS Integrity operates in the energy sectors, specialising in advanced instrumentation, data acquisition, and structural integrity monitoring. The company's core revenue is generated through the design, supply, and support of online monitoring systems, including acoustic sand detection, erosion monitoring, gas analysers, and flow meters for operators across the North Sea and international markets.

The position offers the KTP Associate the following benefits:

• £2,000 per year to spend on personal training with around 10% of your time spent on personal development
• Opportunity of a permanent position with the company
• Fast track your career
• Own your own project, delivering positive change
• Apply your academic knowledge to a real life challenge
• A KTP could be the perfect launchpad, helping enhance your career by managing a challenging project central to a business’s strategic development and long term growth.
• KTPs offer extensive opportunities for graduates and post-grads, as you provide the link between an expert academic team and a dynamic company. This ‘bridge’ gives you unique and exceptional access to both worlds.
• A fulfilling employment opportunity where you can apply your knowledge to turn a key strategic innovation idea into reality
• The chance to manage a challenging, real-world project
• You can choose a variety of training modules during your KTP: project management, marketing and communication, finance, leadership and/or personal development, as well as job-specific technical training.
• All this in addition to the invaluable experience gained through working on a KTP project with the support of expert teams.

The project is part of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme that aims to help businesses to innovate and grow by working with UK universities. Successful Knowledge Transfer Partnership projects are funded by UK Research and Innovation through Innovate UK and are part of the government’s Industrial Strategy. To find out how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position please visit: www.ktpws.org.uk

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Selda Oterkus, selda.oterkus@strath.ac.uk.

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