At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on flame spread using advanced laser diagnostics.
- Company: Join the University of Edinburgh, a leader in scientific research and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team in a vibrant international community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fire science while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: PhD in Engineering or related field; experience with laser diagnostics required.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 48822 £ per year.
UE07: £41,064.00 - £48,822.00 Per Annum. College of Science & Engineering / School of Engineering. Institute/Discipline: Institute of Multiscale Thermofluids. Full Time - 35 hours per week. Fixed Term Contract - 24 months.
We are looking for a post‑doctoral researcher associate (PDRA) who has appreciable experience with advanced laser diagnostics, which will be used for fundamental studies of fire phenomena including flame spread, heat transfer, fluid mechanics and flame dynamics.
The Opportunity: This project focuses on applications of laser and optical diagnostic techniques to study the fundamental mechanisms governing flame spread behaviour on solid surfaces. The experimental techniques provide non‑intrusive measurements of gas phase temperature, species concentrations, velocity field, soot distribution, and surface temperature during flame spread. Measurements will assess the key physical and chemical interactions governing flames as they spread over solid material, with particular emphasis on resolving the coupling between gas‑ and solid‑phase processes, including modes of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and the gas phase processes (flame behaviour, chemical reactions, mixing, etc.). Investigation will be performed in relation to system parameters including the direction of flame spread, fuel thickness, fuel properties (charring vs. non‑charring materials), and oxidiser flow conditions.
This work provides an exciting opportunity to study a rich scientific problem, where the coupling of solid‑phase and gas‑phase phenomena has been limited by a lack of non‑intrusive experimental tools applied to flame spread. We are hiring a PDRA with experience with laser diagnostics applied in flame environments. Diagnostics that will be used in this project include coherent anti‑Stokes Raman spectroscopy, laser induced fluorescence, phosphor thermometry, particle‑image velocimetry, and two‑colour pyrometry. Candidates must have experience with at least one of the above diagnostics to be considered for the position. Strong candidates will exhibit the ability to learn diagnostics (where applicable) and apply them to fire science applications. Candidates must have their PhD in Engineering or other relevant fields. The candidate will join two PhDs and an experimental officer working on this project. This role is UE07 and is available on a fixed term basis for up to 24 months.
Your skills and attributes for success:
- Proven track record with laser diagnostics in reacting flows
- Experience in fire or combustion related topics
- Strong track‑record in publishing in peer reviewed scientific journals
- Experience or theoretical knowledge of flame behaviour
- Strong understanding of heat transfer and fluid mechanics in flame environments
As a valued member of our team, you can expect:
- A competitive salary.
- An exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work.
- To be part of a diverse and vibrant international community.
- Comprehensive Staff Benefits, including generous annual leave entitlement, defined benefits pension scheme, a wide range of staff discounts, family‑friendly initiatives, and flexible work options.
Championing equality, diversity, and inclusion: The University of Edinburgh holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance gender equality in higher education. We are members of the Race Equality Charter, and we are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, actively promoting LGBT equality.
Prior to any employment commencing with the University, you will be required to evidence your right to work in the UK. Further information is available on our right to work webpages. The University may be able to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. This will depend on a number of factors specific to the successful applicant.
Key dates to note: The closing date for applications is 12 June 2026. Unless stated otherwise, the closing time for applications is 11:59 pm (UK time). If you are applying from outside the UK, the closing time shown on our adverts will automatically adjust to your browser’s local time zone.
Laser Diagnostics Researcher: Flame Spread employer: The University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of engineering. As a Laser Diagnostics Researcher, you will be part of a vibrant international community, with access to comprehensive staff benefits, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, you will enjoy a rich cultural experience while contributing to groundbreaking research in fire phenomena.
Contact Details:
The University of Edinburgh Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laser Diagnostics Researcher: Flame Spread
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of laser diagnostics and fire science. Attend relevant conferences or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential colleagues or mentors. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your experience with laser diagnostics and any related projects. This could include publications, presentations, or even a brief video explaining your work. Having tangible evidence of your expertise can really set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses to common questions in the field. Focus on articulating your experience with flame dynamics and heat transfer clearly and confidently. The more you practice, the more comfortable you'll feel when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s a straightforward process, and it ensures that your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to joining our vibrant team at the University of Edinburgh!
We think you need these skills to ace Laser Diagnostics Researcher: Flame Spread
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Laser Skills:Make sure to highlight your experience with laser diagnostics in your application. We want to see how you've applied these techniques in fire or combustion-related topics, so don’t hold back on the details!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Laser Diagnostics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of advanced laser diagnostics, especially those mentioned in the job description like coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy and particle-image velocimetry. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with these techniques and how they apply to flame spread studies.
✨Showcase Your Research Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous research projects, particularly those related to fire phenomena or combustion. Highlight any publications you've contributed to in peer-reviewed journals, as this will demonstrate your capability and commitment to advancing knowledge in the field.
✨Understand the Fundamentals
Brush up on your understanding of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and flame behaviour. Be prepared to explain how these concepts relate to the experimental techniques you'll be using. This shows that you not only have technical skills but also a solid theoretical foundation.
✨Be Ready for Team Dynamics
Since you'll be working alongside PhD students and an experimental officer, think about how you can contribute to a collaborative environment. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before, especially in research settings, to show you're a great fit for their dynamic.
