Research Associate - Aids to Navigation - 1fte fixed term for 3 year

Developing Low-Cost Co-Designed Navigation Aids for SIDS & LDCs School of Design

Fixed-term: 3 years

Full-time (Years 1–2) | 0.3 FTE (Year 3)

The School of Design invites applications for a Research Associate to join an interdisciplinary research team working on Developing Low-Cost Co-Designed Navigation Aids for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

This newly funded project builds on the School of Design’s internationally recognised research in design for safety at sea and the New Economic Models for the Oceans (NEMO) programme. Aids to Navigation support safe maritime movement and reduce risks to vessels and passengers at sea. Current systems are typically industrially manufactured to international standards set by the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), but their cost can be prohibitive for many island and developing nations.

This project aims to collaboratively design, prototype and test low-cost navigation aids created using local, sustainable and circular materials. Working closely with communities, partners and stakeholders in SIDS and LDC contexts, the research will develop new approaches to meeting international standards while improving maritime safety, supporting trade, and strengthening local employment opportunities. The project will culminate in a joint publication and case study demonstrating a new application of IALA standards.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate with experience in research methods, stakeholder engagement and co-design practice. The successful candidate will contribute to research delivery, co-design activities, fieldwork, and design development, supporting both physical prototyping and communication of research outcomes.

Role Responsibilities

The postholder will:

• Undertake high-quality collaborative research contributing to project outputs and impact 
• Support co-design processes with local communities and stakeholders 
• Contribute to the design, prototyping and testing of low-cost aids to navigation 
• Conduct fieldwork and research activities in a range of international contexts 
• Assist with project coordination, research administration and reporting 
• Contribute to dissemination activities including publications, workshops, exhibitions and public engagement 
• Work collaboratively with academic, industry and third-sector partners 

Person Specification

You will demonstrate:

• A first degree in a relevant discipline and a postgraduate qualification or equivalent professional or research experience 
• A track record of using research methods within academic or practice-based contexts 
• Experience of stakeholder engagement and co-design, participatory or inclusive design approaches 
• Strong physical (3D) design and communication design skills 
• Ability to work collaboratively across cultures, disciplines and sectors 
• Understanding of ethical research practice and professional standards 
• Willingness to undertake international travel and fieldwork in varied climates and development contexts 
• Experience contributing to projects delivered within agreed timelines or budgets 

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to internationally significant research addressing maritime safety, sustainability and equitable design innovation.

Please see Information pack for further details.

Closing for applications 11.59 on Sunday 24 May 2026

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