Research Associate/ProDesk Fellow

£32,080 to £38,784 per annum (pro rata if applicable) depending on skills and experience (minimum £32,080 with relevant PhD or maximum £34,610 without PhD). Salary progression beyond this measure is subject to performance

Applications are invited for the above position in the Department of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering in the School of Engineering at University Park, Nottingham. This post will complement and enhance research-related activities within the Rolls-Royce University Technology Center (UTC) in Manufacturing and Technology on the Pavilion at the University of Nottingham. UTC’s research is highly ranked in manufacturing-related areas and implements leading technologies in these areas.

This post will focus on the study of advanced manufacturing techniques and systems design. It is assumed that the manufacturing system is designed and the manufacturing performance of materials through different techniques is studied in detail. Another goal is to study material properties (including microstructures, micro/macro mechanical performance, etc.) that are affected by the advanced manufacturing process.

The successful candidate will be expected to join Rolls-Royce UTC in manufacturing and On-Wing technology and contribute to high quality research. Candidates should have good independent research capabilities, publications in a high-impact academic journal, the ability to work with industrial/academic partners, and experience implementing successful projects.

Candidates must have a good first degree in Mechanical Engineering, preferably a PhD (or about to complete). A better understanding of material properties would be beneficial.

This full-time position is available from 1 January 2026, but a late start can be agreed, and will be offered on a two-year fixed term contract. Full-time working hours (36.25 hours per week).

Secondment requests from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior approval has been obtained from both your current line manager and your primary function manager, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal inquiries can be directed to Professor Jirong Liao (Zhirong.Liao@nottingham.ac.uk). Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

It is a requirement of this role that you undertake a Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) check.

More details:

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