Postdoctoral Research Associate

About The Role

Postdoctoral Research Associate
This CREWW-funded full-time post is available from July 1st on a fixed-term contract until August 2027.

The starting salary will be from £34,610 on Grade (E), depending on qualifications and experience.

This role is based at Exeter in the UK.

The Role
The Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy wishes to recruit a Postdoctoral Research Associate to deliver the CREWW-funded project to develop a novel water pipe junction. The successful applicant will lead the structural design and validation of a novel pipeline junction, funded through the CREWW partnership between the University of Exeter and South West Water. The role involves finite element modelling, AI-driven inverse design, experimental validation, and CFD analysis to develop a leak-free, cost-effective alternative to existing pipeline junctions.

The post will include nonlinear finite element modelling and parametric simulation of the junction device; AI and machine learning-driven performance-based inverse design; design and execution of experimental test rigs with Digital Image Correlation (DIC); CFD modelling to assess hydraulic performance; collaboration with materials scientists; and preparation of technical reports and journal publications.

About You
The successful applicant will be able to present information on research progress and outcomes, communicate complex information, orally, in writing and electronically and prepare proposals and applications to external bodies.

Applicants will possess a relevant PhD (or nearing completion) or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes. Applicants will be able to demonstrate expertise in parametric finite element modelling, machine learning methodologies applied to engineering design, and hands-on structural testing including Digital Image Correlation (DIC). Experience in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and hydraulic modelling is desirable.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification (available on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button) for full details of this role.

Further information
Please contact insert Dr Jiajia Shen (j.shen3@exeter.ac.uk) or Dr Raffaele Vinai (R.Vinai@exeter.ac.uk).

About Us

Transform Your Career and Help Shape a Greener, Healthier, and Fairer Future

Join the University of Exeter, a top 200 Russel Group university (QS & THE World University Rankings 2025), excelling in teaching (triple Gold rating, TEF 2023) and leading groundbreaking research in the beautiful southwest of England.

We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities. Our inclusive, merit-based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 140 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.

You can read more about our current accreditations and commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here, including our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.

How we can help
If you are considering applying and need support to do so, please get in touch with us at hrhelpdesk@exeter.ac.uk. You can request reasonable adjustments within your application or by contacting us. You can also choose to be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme and find out here how this is managed during our recruitment and onboarding process.

Advert information