At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the development of innovative motor-twin models for cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive leave, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Part-time role with excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in advanced engineering while collaborating with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in electrical engineering or related fields.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university. We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
We are inviting applications for a Research Assistant to support the University of Sheffield’s contribution to the SMART (Secure Motor AI-Responsive Technology) project. The post will contribute to the development and validation of computationally efficient motor-twin models for permanent magnet synchronous machines. The work will focus on machine modelling, parameter and state estimation, plus preparing modelling outputs that can be shared with project’s partners. The successful candidate will work with academic and industrial project partners to generate simulation and experimental validation evidence, using available machine data, dynamometer testing, and HIL methods. The role will also involve documenting methods and results for project deliverables, reports and publications. The post is suited to candidates with a PhD awarded or close to completion (or equivalent experience), in electrical machines, drives, control, real-time simulation, or a closely related engineering discipline, who is motivated to develop deployable motor-twin methods for intelligent motor drives. The post is for the duration of 2 months and for a maximum of 20 hours per week.
Main duties and responsibilities:
- Develop and implement motor-twin models for BLDC/PMSM drives, including parameters and state estimation.
- Deliver reduced-order high-fidelity electrical machine modelling methods suitable for simulation, HIL and real-time controller.
- Support validation using HIL platforms, dynamometer testing and environmental characterisation data, as required by the project plan.
- Work collaboratively with academic and industrial project partners, present progress, and maintain clear technical records, code, data and documentation.
- Contribute to project deliverables for the University of Sheffield work package.
- Contribute to dissemination activities, including preparation of technical reports, conference or journal papers.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification:
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria:
- A PhD or working towards a PhD degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent experience) - Essential
- Experience in modelling, simulation or analysis of electrical machines or electric drives, such as BLDC/PMSM systems - Essential
- Experience using engineering software or programming tools for modelling and data analysis, such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, finite-element tools or equivalent - Essential
- Awareness/knowledge of field-oriented control, FPGA-based control, GaN inverter technologies, or adaptive-control concepts - Desirable
- Good written and verbal communication skills, including experience writing reports and presenting your findings - Essential
- Ability to work effectively within a team environment - Essential
- Ability to plan own workload and prioritise conflicting deadlines - Essential
- Effective time management skills - Essential
- Ability to plan research tasks and progress work activities, and to monitor and manage the delivery of outcomes - Essential
Further Information:
Grade 6.1 Salary £32,080.00 pro rata Work arrangement 20 hours per week Duration 2 months from start of project Line manager Xiao Chen Direct reports Head of School Right to work in the UK This role does not meet the criteria for Skilled Worker sponsorship under the UK Visa & Immigration points-based system.
For informal enquiries about this job, contact Dr Xiao Chen at xiao.chen@sheffield.ac.uk.
Next steps in the recruitment process: It is anticipated that the selection process will take place during the week commencing 31 August 2026. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 24/08/26.
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Research Assistant in Motor-twin Development and Validation in Sheffield employer: Dunhillmedical
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment where innovation in teaching and research thrives. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities, collaborative projects, and a supportive community that values inclusivity and excellence in education. Located in a dynamic city known for its rich culture and student-friendly atmosphere, this role as a Lecturer in Business Analytics promises not only professional fulfilment but also a rewarding lifestyle.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Motor-twin Development and Validation in Sheffield
✨Reach Out to Local Engineering Communities
Get involved with local engineering groups or meetups in your area. These gatherings are often goldmines for part-time opportunities where you can network directly with industry professionals and learn about openings at companies like Dunhillmedical.
✨Showcase Your Projects
As an aspiring engineer, consider showcasing your hands-on projects on platforms like GitHub or your personal website. This not only highlights your skills but also gives potential employers an insight into your practical abilities, making you stand out when applying for part-time roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Motor-twin Development and Validation in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Practical Skills:In engineering, we really want to see what you can actually do. Make sure your CV showcases relevant technical skills and any projects you've worked on—whether in coursework or outside of classes. Specifics about your engineering tools and software are gold dust!
Show Off Team Projects:Teamwork is key in engineering, so if you've collaborated on any projects, be sure to mention them! Talk about what your role was, any challenges you faced, and how you worked together to solve problems. It’ll give us a peek into how you operate in a team environment.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Part-Time Work:Since this is a part-time gig, let us know how you can balance this role alongside your other commitments. Whether you’re a student or juggling life, mention how you’ll manage your time effectively and what you’ll bring to the table during your hours with us at Dunhillmedical.
Include Relevant Coursework and Projects:If you’ve taken courses that relate to the role you're applying for or have completed relevant projects, make sure these stand out on your CV. It’s not just about work experience; we want to see what you've learned and how it practically applies to the position at Dunhillmedical.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dunhillmedical
✨Know Your Engineering Fundamentals
Brush up on the core engineering principles related to your specific area of expertise. Expect questions that dive into technical concepts and problem-solving scenarios that showcase your understanding of these fundamentals. We want you to demonstrate that you can apply these principles in real-world situations!
✨Practical Problem-Solving Exercises
Be prepared for some hands-on problem-solving tasks during the interview. You might be given a case study or a technical problem to solve on the spot. This is your chance to showcase not just your technical skills but also your critical thinking and creativity, so stay cool and think aloud to let them see your thought process.
✨Highlight Your Availability Flexibility
Since this is a part-time role, be clear about your availability when discussing your schedule with Dunhillmedical. They want to know you can balance your commitments, so indicating how you can fit this role alongside other engagements can really work in your favour. Let’s show them your eagerness to make it work!
✨Build a Mini-Portfolio of Projects
Even for a part-time role, having a portfolio showcasing your engineering projects can set you apart. This could include university projects, personal experiments, or collaborative work. Share a couple of these during the interview to demonstrate your passion and practical experience, and make it easy for them to see your potential contribution.
