At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge project to innovate concrete measurement with smart sensors.
- Company: Converge, a climate tech startup revolutionising concrete construction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic hybrid work environment, and inclusive culture.
- Other info: Engage in fun clubs and events to connect with fellow innovators.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global carbon emissions while advancing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD student or postdoc in electrical engineering or experimental physics with hands-on lab experience.
The predicted salary is between 25650 - 31350 £ per year.
Converge is a climate and construction technology startup that builds AI and sensors to digitise and decarbonise concrete construction. Concrete is the most consumed material on the planet, and represents 8% of global carbon emissions. By leveraging smart sensors embedded in the material, Converge has built one of the world’s largest datasets on concrete performance. This sensor data powers new foundation models for material optimisation. Converge is backed by leading climate tech and impact investors and has raised over £40m to deliver on this mission and vision to build the future.
The Role - Research Engineer
Duration - Up to 6 months
We are looking for a highly skilled researcher with a strong background in electrical engineering, experimental physics or related discipline to support our concrete technology team with an exciting frontier research project focused on novel methods for material behaviour characterisation. This is your chance to work on a cutting edge project with meaningful impact on the way the world measures concrete, the most used man-made material in the world.
About You
As a Research Engineer, you’ll contribute to:
- Designing, assembling and testing an experimental laboratory setup for material characterisation.
- Programming lab instruments and setups for automated material testing e.g. automating instrument control, signal acquisition, and data logging.
- Conducting research experiments and iterating on experimental setups.
- Scaling setups for large scale multi-instrument experiments.
- Documenting configurations, experimental results, and system architecture.
Requirements
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher or final-stage PhD student in electrical engineering, experimental physics, or a related discipline with:
- Proven track record conducting deep research and designing experiments.
- Experience designing and building laboratory setups using benchtop equipment and/or custom electronics to achieve experimental goals.
- Strong familiarity with benchtop lab equipment e.g. oscilloscopes, function generators etc.
- Experience with mixed-signal electronics and circuit design.
- Hands-on experience with microcontrollers, multiplexers, data acquisition, and signal processing.
- Strong experience programming, scripting, and automating experimental setups for data collection (e.g. using Python, LabView or other).
- Experience with large scale experimental setups which include multiple instruments working in parallel.
Benefits
Salary: Competitive
A collaborative, dynamic and hybrid work environment.
An array of Convergian led clubs you can join from running to board games, and in person events throughout the year so you can have a chance to learn more about your fellow Convergians.
A fun, inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity in all its forms, and where everyone can bring their whole selves to work and be treated fairly, equitably and respectfully.
PhD Placement Opportunity Embedded Sensing in Concrete employer: Converge
Converge is an exceptional employer that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of London’s vibrant tech scene. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development and hands-on experience in cutting-edge research within the climate and construction technology sectors. Our inclusive work culture encourages creativity and teamwork, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about making a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Placement Opportunity Embedded Sensing in Concrete
✨Hit Up Engineering Meetups
Get yourself out there and attend engineering meetups and events in your area. Not only can you learn about the latest trends, but it’s a fab chance to meet professionals who could point you towards placements, including those at companies like Converge.
✨Leverage University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university's career services. They often have exclusive placement opportunities and can connect you with companies actively looking for engineering students during recruitment seasons. Plus, they might have some tips specifically tailored for getting into firms like Converge!
✨Participate in Relevant Projects
Get involved in engineering projects or collaborate on university initiatives. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers like Converge that you're proactive and passionate about engineering, and it can lead to networking opportunities that land you a placement.
✨Apply Early and Often
Placement opportunities can slip away quickly, so make sure you're applying as soon as they're advertised. Keep an eye on our website for openings with firms like Converge, and consider applying to multiple roles to increase your chances of finding the perfect fit.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Placement Opportunity Embedded Sensing in Concrete
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:As an engineering placements applicant, make sure to highlight any relevant projects you've worked on, be it in university or personal initiatives. We love seeing your hands-on experience, so don't shy away from including details about the technologies you used and the problems you solved.
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:When crafting your CV, focus on engineering-specific skills and tools you're familiar with. Mention software proficiency, technical skills, and any engineering-related modules or coursework that showcase your knowledge and experience relevant to the role at Converge.
Express Your Enthusiasm!:In your cover letter, take the chance to express why you're excited about this placement at Converge. Highlight how this opportunity aligns with your career goals and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Your motivation is just as important as your qualifications!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any engineering certifications or completed online courses that enhance your skills, be sure to mention them. These little extras can really boost your application and show that you're keen to learn and develop as an engineer during your placement.
How to prepare for a job interview at Converge
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
For an engineering placement like the one at Converge, make sure you're well-versed in the fundamental concepts relevant to the specific engineering discipline you're applying for. Be prepared to tackle a few technical questions that require you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your understanding of essential theories.
✨Show Off Your Projects
Having a solid portfolio of projects can really set you apart. Whether it's your academic work, personal projects, or technical challenges you've tackled, be ready to discuss them. If possible, bring any relevant materials along, as visual aids can help you articulate your thought process and design choices more clearly in the eyes of your interviewers.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
In the engineering field, it's not just about knowing the theory; you'll often have to solve real-world problems on the spot. Make sure you can approach a problem methodically, explaining your thought process. Practice common engineering scenarios or case studies related to your desired role to build your confidence.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this is a placement, employers at Converge are looking for potential over perfection. Be upfront about what you hope to learn and how passionate you are about growing in the engineering field. Show that you’re not only ready to contribute but also keen to absorb knowledge and gain experience from seasoned professionals.
