Research Associate in Geotechnical Centrifuge Testing

Job description:

Are you an experienced geotechnical centrifuge modeller looking to lead applied physical modelling research with direct industry and regulatory impact? We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to deliver a programme of geotechnical centrifuge testing evaluating landfill capping performance.

You will join the Geotechnical Research Group, on a project commissioned to support the development programme of a long-term waste repository. The project uses the University's 2 m radius geotechnical beam centrifuge (125g, 50g-tonne capacity) to assess how a low permeability capping layer performs under settlement-induced strain, and whether cracking in the layer can mechanically 'self-heal' over time. Findings will directly inform the design of the repository cap and validate numerical models developed by our industry partners.

You will take the lead on fabricating and commissioning a purpose-built centrifuge test package featuring a hydraulically controlled trapdoor mechanism, before running a structured programme of tests across three series: preliminary calibration and permeability testing, main undrained and drained settlement testing, and start-stop testing to investigate self-healing behaviour. You will analyse deformation and strain using digital image correlation and photogrammetry, interpret pore pressure data, and report findings to the wider research and industry team throughout the project.

You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in geotechnical engineering, with hands-on experience of geotechnical laboratory and centrifuge testing. Experience with image-based strain analysis techniques and instrumentation for physical modelling is essential, and prior experience with bentonite-enriched soils, high plasticity clays or similar materials would be an advantage. This is a great opportunity to lead a technically rich, applied testing programme with real regulatory impact, working closely with an experienced technical and academic team, and to build your track record in industry-facing research.

While this role involves substantial hands-on laboratory and centrifuge work based in Sheffield, we are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University where practicable.

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