At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and manufacture innovative 3D printed wing fairings for future aircraft.
- Company: Join a leading aerospace research team at the University of Bristol.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge aerospace technology and research.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract with opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of aviation with your design skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in 3D printing, aerospace structures, and experimental testing required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This post is a Morphing Aerospace Structures focused Post-Doctoral research position at the Research Associate or Senior Research Associate level, with a duration of 5 months. This position specifically focuses on the development of compliance-based morphing wing fairing structures.
In particular, the successful applicant will design, manufacture, and test 3D printed prototypes of deformable wing fairings using a combination of elastomeric and polymer materials. The wing fairings are being developed for application to future commercial aircraft wing concepts, building on a significant body of previous research work on compliance-based morphing structures at the University of Bristol led by Prof. Benjamin Woods.
What will you be doing?
This role will undertake design and manufacturing activities to develop prototypes of increasing sophistication that demonstrate the ability to manufacture a particular, existing, compliant morphing structural concept into the complex, fully three-dimensional shapes required for it to be used on a morphing fairing that covers a moving joint on an aircraft wing. This will entail extensive 3D printing with multi-material 3D printers, including the use of highly deformable elastomeric materials. Design iterations will be informed by various forms of experimental testing.
You should apply if
- You have extensive experience of 3D printing complex shapes, ideally including the use of difficult to print elastomeric materials (e.g. TPU).
- A strong track record in the development and design of aerospace structures.
- Experience with morphing structures.
- Experimental testing skills.
- A relevant degree.
Additional information
- Contract type: Fixed term contract until 31/12/2026
- Work pattern: Full time
- Grade: I
- School/Unit: Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 26/05/2026. Shortlisting is due to take place on 27/05/2026. Interviews are expected to take place on 08/06/2026.
For informal queries please contact: Prof. Benjamin Woods, ben.k.s.woods@bristol.ac.uk
Research Associate in Compliant Wing Fairing Manufacturing in Bristol employer: City of Bristol College
The University of Bristol offers an exceptional work environment for the Research Associate in Compliant Wing Fairing Manufacturing, fostering innovation and collaboration in aerospace engineering. With access to cutting-edge technology and a strong emphasis on employee development, you will have the opportunity to contribute to pioneering research while working alongside leading experts in the field. The supportive culture encourages creativity and professional growth, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful employment in a vibrant academic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Compliant Wing Fairing Manufacturing in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the aerospace field, especially those who have worked on morphing structures. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your 3D printing projects, especially those involving elastomeric materials. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of compliance-based morphing structures. Be ready to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the role at hand.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Compliant Wing Fairing Manufacturing in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience with 3D printing and aerospace structures. We want to see how your skills align with the specific requirements of the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about morphing wing fairings and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Let us know what excites you about working with us at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Experimental Skills:Since this role involves experimental testing, be sure to mention any hands-on experience you have in this area. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their ability to iterate designs based on testing results.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Bristol College
✨Know Your 3D Printing Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of 3D printing, especially with elastomeric materials like TPU. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've tackled challenges in printing complex shapes. This will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Design Process
Prepare to talk about your design iterations and how experimental testing has influenced your work. Bring examples of your previous designs or prototypes, and be ready to explain the thought process behind them. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Morphing Structures
Since this role focuses on morphing wing fairings, make sure you understand the principles behind compliance-based morphing structures. Research recent advancements in the field and be prepared to discuss how they could apply to the position. This will highlight your commitment to staying current in aerospace innovations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the team's ongoing projects or future directions in compliant wing fairing manufacturing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals. Plus, it makes for a more engaging conversation!
