At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop digital twin models and analyse data for advanced manufacturing projects.
- Company: Brunel University London, a leading research-intensive technology university.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, training opportunities, and a great pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working approach with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join an innovative team and contribute to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.
- Qualifications: PhD or relevant degree in Materials Science or related fields; programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36640 - 44679 £ per year.
Brunel University London is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Fellow (PDRA) to join BCAST, a leading UK research centre in advanced materials and manufacturing. You will play a key role in the DIGI-HSMC project, an ambitious collaborative programme developing next‑generation High Shear Melt Conditioning (HSMC) systems enhanced with digital twin technology, real‑time sensing, and intelligent process control.
Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus
Salary:
- Grade R1 Research Assistant: from £36,640 to £38,638 inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £39,682 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution.
- Research Fellow: from £40,757 to £44,179 inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £52,067 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution.
Hours: Full‑time
Contract Type: Fixed term 10 months
BCAST is a world‑leading research centre in solidification science and lightweight metals, offering state‑of‑the‑art facilities including advanced microscopy, thermal processing systems, and digital modelling capabilities. The centre has a strong track record in industrial collaboration and technology translation.
The Role
You will play a key role in the DIGI-HSMC project, an ambitious collaborative programme developing next‑generation High Shear Melt Conditioning (HSMC) systems enhanced with digital twin technology, real‑time sensing, and intelligent process control.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement digital twin models for molten metal processing
- Integrate and analyse data from various sensors such as temperature, torque, and acoustic sensors
- Perform advanced materials characterisation (e.g. SEM, hardness testing, microstructural analysis) to validate process outcomes
- Support development and validation of physics‑informed machine learning models for process optimisation
- Support experimental trials and validation in laboratory and industrial environments
- Collaborate with academic and industrial partners to refine system performance
- Contribute to the development of a digital materials knowledge base linking process parameters to performance outcomes
- Prepare technical reports, publications, and presentations for both academic and industrial audiences
You Will Have
- A PhD or relevant degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related discipline
- Experience in at least two of the following: Digital twins or process modelling, Sensor systems and data acquisition, Metallurgy, casting, or thermal processing
- Strong programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, LABVIEW or similar)
- Interest or experience in data‑driven methods, machine learning, or digital manufacturing
- Ability to work across experimental and computational environments
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Desirable
- Experience in AI/ML for industrial processes
- Knowledge of metal casting or melt processing
We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme and a range of health‑related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach.
Closing date for applications: 25 May 2026
If you have any technical issues, contact us at hrsystems@brunel.ac.uk.
Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce to reflect our community.
Research Assistant/Fellow in Digital Twin for Advanced Manufacturing - 16864 employer: Brunel University of London
Contact Detail:
Brunel University of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Fellow in Digital Twin for Advanced Manufacturing - 16864
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to Brunel University or BCAST. Attend relevant events and engage on platforms like LinkedIn to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience with digital twins, sensor systems, and programming. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses, especially around your technical skills and experiences related to advanced manufacturing and materials science.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Brunel University and contributing to exciting projects like DIGI-HSMC.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Fellow in Digital Twin for Advanced Manufacturing - 16864
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Assistant/Fellow. Highlight your relevant experience in digital twins, sensor systems, and programming skills. We want to see how your background aligns with the DIGI-HSMC project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about advanced manufacturing and how your skills can contribute to our team at BCAST. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. Whether it's Python, MATLAB, or your experience with machine learning, make sure we know what you bring to the table. We’re looking for those standout skills that will help us innovate!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brunel University of London
✨Know Your Digital Twins
Make sure you understand the concept of digital twins and how they apply to advanced manufacturing. Brush up on your knowledge of High Shear Melt Conditioning systems and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the DIGI-HSMC project.
✨Show Off Your Technical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your programming skills, especially in Python or MATLAB. Bring examples of past projects where you've used these skills, particularly in relation to sensor systems or data acquisition.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. You’ll need to collaborate with both academic and industrial partners, so being able to communicate effectively is key. Think about how you can present your ideas clearly during the interview.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready about the role, the team, and the DIGI-HSMC project. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if this position aligns with your career goals. Ask about their approach to integrating machine learning in their processes!