Composites Forming Development Engineer

iCOMAT Ltd, in partnership with the University of Bristol, has an opportunity for a highly skilled & qualified graduate to lead and deliver a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project to develop a simulation modelling process for forming composite fibres into 3D-shaped component parts. As a KTP Associate, you will be based at iCOMAT in Gloucestershire to embed new knowledge using research and academic support from the University through this innovation project. You will be able to apply your degree in real world applications with the role, providing an introduction to industrial and commercial work whilst retaining links to academia.

High quality numerical analysis is a crucial part of the process of understanding and predicting high quality manufacture of composite structures. However, these tools have historically suffered from high computational costs preventing their large-scale use in an industrial environment. The role holder will develop and deploy theory-guided machine learning tools for the prediction of composite manufacturing processes. You will work on development of algorithms, custom written codes, application of commercial finite element software and development of user subroutines, and embedding these into iCOMAT’s processes.

• Development, application and support of hi-fidelity finite element tools, bespoke codes and theory-guided machine learning algorithms for the prediction of manufacturing processes in composite materials.
• Development of user subroutines for finite element constitutive models.
• Modelling of samples and representative features as required by the project.
• Validation of model and numerical analysis results.
• Dissemination of results via conferences and meetings.
• Writing papers in both high impact and specialized journals.
• Ensure that the knowledge transferred is fully embedded in iCOMAT’s R&D department so that the company has the capability to continue to develop new material products and applications post-KTP.
• Develop working relationships with and between Bristol Composites Institute and iCOMAT colleagues.
• Coordinating progress meetings with all involved with this KTP and reporting on progress and results internally and to the industrial partner.
• Act as point of contact for technical discussions with iCOMAT customers and suppliers.
• Curation and documentation of research outputs (especially software and data).

• Experience of finite element analysis techniques, particularly for manufacturing simulations.
• Experience of processing of numerical and/or experimental data and systems thinking.
• Experience of materials modelling.
• Strong mathematical background.
• Be able to perform tasks with minimal supervision and training.
• Experience or awareness of coding (e.g. Python, FORTRAN or C++).
• Knowledge of data science/AI frameworks.
• Experience of working with industrial partners.
• Good first degree or equivalent in Engineering, Applied Mathematics or Physics (with an MSc or PhD in a related topic).
• PhD in Engineering/Materials Science (or closely related discipline).

• Excellent communication skills to liaise with stakeholders across various teams within iCOMAT.
• Willingness to take ownership of the project.
• Results-oriented – ability to work to a deadline and prioritise.
• Fast learner to adapt to new company processes.
• Self-starter with ability to work independently.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.

• Travel between academic and industrial partner sites.
• Interest in working at the interface between industry and academia in applied R&D.

This 24 month KTP with iCOMAT in Gloucester, will develop a simulation modelling process for forming composite fibres into 3D-shaped component parts for the aerospace sector. The postholder will be based at iCOMAT approx. 90% and will work to amend and enhance existing design processes and embed new knowledge using research and academic support from the University.

About the business: iCOMAT is a start-up established in 2019 with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge composite manufacturing technology. iCOMAT has commercialised and patented the Rapid Tow Shearing (RTS) process. RTS is the world’s first and only automated composites manufacturing technology that can place wide composite tapes along curved paths without defects.