At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in developing innovative manufacturing methods for advanced composites through simulation and testing.
- Company: University of Bath, a diverse and inclusive institution with a global reputation.
- Benefits: Generous salary, professional development, flexible work-life balance, and various staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while collaborating with industry partners.
- Qualifications: PhD in Engineering or related field, with experience in FEA modelling and composite structures.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with excellent career growth and support for under-represented groups.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 46049 Β£ per year.
About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate to join us developing new manufacturing methods for non-standard fibre angle composites from simulation and testing perspectives. The research will include studies of formability, deposition, consolidation and infusion as aspects of design-for-manufacture. Materials testing and bonded joint analysis are additional topics within the research scope.
About the candidate
The successful candidate will work alongside other researchers in assessing analytical and design aspects of non-standard fibre angle composites, as well as associated PhD students. Significant collaboration with the industrial partners is expected. Applicants should possess a first degree in an Engineering or Engineering-related subject and a PhD with appropriate content, as well as proven experience of FEA modelling, design and manufacture of composite structures.
Experience in some of the following areas will be a distinct advantage:
- Mechanical testing
- Joining technologies
- Mechanical/thermal simulation
- Process development
- Process optimisation
Candidates should be self-motivated and possess project management and technical communication skills.
Further Information
This role is offered on a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term until 31 July 2027. A lower grade offer may be made (Grade 6) with comparable reduction in responsibilities and amendment in job title to Research Assistant, if a suitable applicant cannot be found to fill the Grade 7 position. Applicants will need to be within six months of their course completion date and will be promoted to Research Associate once their PhD has been awarded.
We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.
What we can offer you
Weβre continually expanding our benefits package to better support you and enhance your experience with us and the below is just an example of some of the many great benefits we offer:
- Free counselling services through Health Assured
- Cycle to work scheme
- Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
- Staff discount at Team Bath gym
- Staff discounts on postgraduate tuition fees
- Staff discount on language courses
- Generous employer contributory pension schemes
- Generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
- A wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and more
- Free entry to the Holburne Museum in Bath
- Local discounts and more
- A family-friendly workplace
- An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
- Relocation allowance
- Visa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses
Find out more about our benefits and watch the video to hear from our staff about what makes the University of Bath a great place to work.
Closing Date: 17 Feb 2026
Department: Education & Research
Salary: Β£38,784 to Β£46,049
Research Associate (KP13403) - Bath, BA2 7AY employer: University of Bath
Contact Detail:
University of Bath Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (KP13403) - Bath, BA2 7AY
β¨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Bath on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out.
β¨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your FEA modelling and composite structures knowledge. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through when discussing your experience!
β¨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaboration skills! Since this role involves working with PhD students and industrial partners, be ready to share examples of successful teamwork from your past experiences.
β¨Tip Number 4
Donβt forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (KP13403) - Bath, BA2 7AY
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in FEA modelling and composite structures, as these are key aspects of the job. We want to see how your background aligns with our research focus!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about developing new manufacturing methods and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the role.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves significant collaboration with industrial partners and PhD students, make sure to mention any teamwork experiences you've had. We love candidates who can work well with others and bring diverse perspectives to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! Itβs the best way for us to receive your application and ensures youβre considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bath
β¨Know Your Composites
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of non-standard fibre angle composites. Be ready to discuss your experience with FEA modelling and how it relates to the role. Highlight any specific projects where you've applied these skills.
β¨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves significant collaboration with industrial partners, prepare examples of past teamwork experiences. Think about how you communicated technical concepts effectively and contributed to group projects.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to mechanical testing, joining technologies, and process optimisation. Review relevant methodologies and be prepared to explain your approach to problem-solving in these areas.
β¨Demonstrate Your Passion for Research
Express your enthusiasm for research and development in engineering. Share your vision for how you can contribute to the university's goals and the impact you hope to make in the field of composite structures.