Research Assistant in Propulsion in Sheffield

Are you passionate about Aerospace engineering and rocketry? Looking to use your technical skills to make an impact on the future of propulsion? We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering for a motivated individual to join our growing Aerospace Propulsion activity. As a Research Assistant, you will work alongside Dr. Alistair John and a growing research team to support cutting‑edge propulsion test activities.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Work with the team to support propulsion test activity
• Lead on the design, planning and organisation of experimental testing
• Support the design and commissioning of new test equipment
• Conduct risk assessments and plan safe test activity
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with members of the research group, PhD students and external project collaborators
• Support the coordination and delivery of research activities in the group
• Contribute to reports, presentations, conference abstracts and journal articles (with support from members of the research team)
• Support undergraduate extra‑curricular and dissertation projects that make use of the group’s test facilities
• Contribute to the academic life of the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification:

An individual who embraces diversity and respects different backgrounds is welcome. If your past experience does not match perfectly, your contribution is still valued.

Qualifications & Criteria:

• A masters (or equivalent) degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent relevant experience)
• Technical knowledge and practical experience related to rocketry and propulsion testing
• Experience conducting risk assessments and planning safe test activity
• A passion for Aerospace engineering and propulsion
• Experience supporting quantitative, experimental research activities
• Experience organising, managing, and preparing research data for analysis
• Excellent IT skills, including familiarity with data acquisition software and willingness to develop further technical skills
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to work effectively to specified deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience of preparing reports or research outputs
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary research team and collaborate with external partners

Benefits:

• A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks)
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways
• A range of generous family‑friendly policies: paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, support for those going through menopause, paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more

Equal Opportunity:

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.