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- Tasks: Join us to develop AI-driven tools for greener marine engines and propulsion systems.
- Company: Be part of a pioneering project transforming maritime sustainability with cutting-edge technologies.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term role with opportunities for impactful research and collaboration.
- Why this job: Contribute to real-world solutions for decarbonisation while enhancing your research skills in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: PhD in Engineering or Computer Science, with experience in high-quality academic research and programming.
- Other info: This is a time-limited position funded until December 2027, focusing on innovative maritime projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Department of Engineering, with a focus on digital twin modelling for marine engines and propulsion systems involving different decarbonisation technologies, as well as the development of AI-driven decision-making tools for optimising low-carbon marine powertrain designs. This position is part of the Horizon Europe project SEASTARS, which aims to transform maritime sustainability by integrating cutting-edge emission-reduction and efficiency technologies into four retrofit and four new-build vessels operating across inland, short-sea, and high-seas shipping routes.
The project seeks to deliver industry-relevant tools that enable optimal design and operation of greener vessels, backed by real-world demonstrations. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of multi-disciplinary modelling, advanced AI algorithms, and decision-support tool development. Responsibilities will include programming, analysing and interpreting data, and contributing to innovative solutions that support maritime decarbonisation. Additional duties involve supporting research funding proposals, engaging in licensing or spin-out activities, and enhancing the public and commercial impact of the research.
This post is fixed term on the Horizon Europe SEASTARS project, e.g. the funding is available from 01/07/2025 for a fixed period only; the project is time limited and will end on 31/12/2027.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria:
- Qualifications
- A good first degree in an Engineering related subject.
- A PhD (or be close to submission) in Marine, Mechanical, Thermal Engineering or Computer Science.
- Experience
- Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
- Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
- Demonstrable ability to present research papers at international conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
- Experience in developing engines and/or fuel cells models in GT-Power.
- Experience in using MATLAB/Python/Siemens Simcentre to develop AI-assisted programme and models for powertrains and propulsion systems within the transportation and energy sectors.
- Skills
- Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
- Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
- A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
- Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
- Experience in developing cryogenic hydrogen storage/compressor/pump models and conducting experimental cryogenics studies.
- Experience in working with industry partners and other internal or external parties to maximise the research impact and establish new research collaboration.
- Skills
- Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.
Contact Information
Prof Dawei Wu, MOL Professor of Maritime Energy Systems
Email: c/o
Postdoctoral Research Associate - SEASTARS - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate - SEASTARS - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the SEASTARS project and its objectives. Understanding the specific goals of the project will help you tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your skills in digital twin modelling and AI can contribute to maritime decarbonisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the marine engineering field, especially those involved in similar projects or research. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential collaborators and gain insights into current trends and challenges in maritime sustainability.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with programming languages like MATLAB and Python. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used these tools in past projects, particularly in developing models for powertrains and propulsion systems.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to work collaboratively by highlighting any previous team projects. Emphasise your communication skills and how you've successfully contributed to research meetings or collaborative proposals, as teamwork is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate - SEASTARS - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant qualifications and experiences, particularly in marine engineering, AI programming, and research. Emphasise any publications or presentations that align with the role.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying to this specific position. Discuss how your background in digital twin modelling and decarbonisation technologies makes you a perfect fit for the SEASTARS project.
Highlight Research Experience: In your application, clearly detail your experience in conducting high-quality academic research. Mention any relevant projects, especially those involving AI algorithms or marine propulsion systems, to demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent communication skills, provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in past research settings, whether through publications, presentations, or collaborative projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous research projects in detail. Highlight any relevant experience in marine, mechanical, or thermal engineering, and be ready to explain how your work aligns with the goals of the SEASTARS project.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency
Familiarise yourself with the tools mentioned in the job description, such as MATLAB, Python, and GT-Power. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools to develop models or algorithms, showcasing your technical skills.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Since teamwork is essential for this role, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others on research projects. Be ready to discuss how you contributed to team dynamics and how you handle differing opinions.
✨Communicate Complex Ideas Clearly
Practice explaining your research and technical concepts in a way that is accessible to non-specialists. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, which is crucial for engaging with both academic and industry partners.
