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- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in ceramic matrix composites and develop cutting-edge solutions.
- Company: Join a world-leading authority in composite materials research and development.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and generous pension contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in industries like aerospace and defence while fostering innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience with ceramic materials and composites, plus a background in chemistry.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with a focus on wellbeing and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 46355 - 70929 £ per year.
Salary range: £46,355 - £70,929 depending on experience + benefits
Location: Bristol based with Hybrid working – 2 days on site, 3 days home
NCC is a world-leading authority on composite materials research, development, and manufacturing. We work with global leaders across industries such as aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and defence to develop cutting-edge composite solutions. As part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the NCC is at the forefront of innovation, helping businesses turn ideas into reality.
What you’ll be doing
- Providing technical specialist authority and guidance on projects and technical capability both tactically and strategically.
- You’ll be revising, formulating and creating the roadmap for novel and innovative approaches and pioneer technical solutions.
- Foster innovation across the team, working in an inter-disciplinary way.
- Create and revise technical documents and advocate for publishing technical content.
- Establish and develop effective partnerships internally and externally with industry partners.
- Represent NCC in relevant technical forums and champion our technical strategy.
What we’re looking for
- Ceramics – You have experience working with ceramic materials and have knowledge of their properties, benefits and limitations.
- Composites – You understand the raw materials, constituent parts and operational characteristics of the various types of CMCs (Ox-Ox, Sic-SiC, C-SiC and C-C etc). With practice of the considerable efforts involved in the various manufacturing routes.
- Fundamental understanding of UHTCMC processing and thermo-ablative characterisation.
- You possess an educational background in chemistry with experience of processes such as chemical vapour deposition or infiltration.
- A strong knowledge of the challenges faced in novel applications CMCs and have a passion for delivering new technology.
- Industrial focus – You’ve put your knowledge to the test or have worked in R&D within industry – proven experience in a practical setting, solving real-world problems with real-world solutions.
- Novel sectors – Ideally, you’ll have knowledge and experience of working within a relevant sector where materials must withstand harsh environments (radiation degradation, high temperatures, space environment), forcing engineers to think outside the box in terms of materials selection. Space, Nuclear, Aerospace, Defence etc.
What do we offer in return?
- Hybrid and flexible working as standard
- Annual salary reviews
- Company paid private medical insurance
- Up to 12.5% employer pension contribution
- Great people
- Honorary staff status at the University of Bristol
With a genuine focus on wellbeing, EDI and learning and development this is a chance to build your career in a thriving R&D facility with a bright future. We see your future in ours. Apply now.
Please don’t wait for the closing deadline if you are interested in this role as we retain the right to close the applications process early depending on the volume of candidates applying. Closing date for applications Sunday 8th March 2026.
Advanced or Principal Research Engineer Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) in Bristol employer: National Composites Centre
Contact Detail:
National Composites Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced or Principal Research Engineer Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) in Bristol
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with ceramic matrix composites. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss the latest trends in CMCs. We recommend practising common interview questions related to ceramics and composites. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time to impress!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly. Let’s make your next career move together!
We think you need these skills to ace Advanced or Principal Research Engineer Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Principal Research Engineer. Highlight your experience with ceramic materials and CMCs, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or innovations you've been part of!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about working with composites and how your background in chemistry makes you a perfect fit for our team at NCC.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, be sure to include examples of how you've tackled real-world problems in R&D. We love seeing how candidates have applied their knowledge in practical settings, especially in challenging environments.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Composites Centre
✨Know Your Ceramics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ceramic materials and their properties. Be ready to discuss the benefits and limitations of different types of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) like Ox-Ox and Sic-SiC. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your R&D Experience
Prepare to share specific examples from your past R&D work, especially in sectors like aerospace or defence. Highlight how you've tackled real-world problems using innovative solutions. This will demonstrate your ability to translate knowledge into practical applications.
✨Foster Innovation Mindset
During the interview, emphasise your passion for innovation and how you’ve fostered this within teams. Discuss any interdisciplinary projects you’ve been part of and how you contributed to creating novel approaches. This aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for in a Principal Research Engineer.
✨Prepare Technical Documentation Examples
Be ready to talk about your experience with creating and revising technical documents. If you have examples of published technical content, bring them along or mention them. This shows you understand the importance of clear communication in technical fields and are proactive about sharing knowledge.