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- Tasks: Develop next-gen vibration-suppression systems using innovative design techniques.
- Company: Join a leading engineering faculty focused on impactful research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative research environment with a focus on interdisciplinary projects.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in automotive, railway, and wind energy sectors.
- Qualifications: PhD or working towards one in Mechanical Engineering; experience in vibration absorber design.
The predicted salary is between 39906 - 44746 £ per year.
The role of vibration-suppression and actuation systems plays a critical role in a wide range of engineering structures, including automotive and railway vehicles, buildings, and wind turbines. To improve the resilience, lifetime cost-effectiveness, and carbon efficiency of these systems, there is a pressing need for a step change in the performance of vibration absorbers and actuation technologies. Given the wide range of possible designs spanning mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical domains, advanced synthesis methods are needed to identify optimal solutions.
The main purpose of this role is to apply network-synthesis-based techniques to the development of next-generation vibration-suppression systems for a range of industrial sectors, including automotive, railway, and wind energy applications. The postholder will work closely with industrial partners and academic researchers to deliver innovative, high-performance solutions with real-world impact.
What will you be doing?
- Supporting academic staff in identifying effective vibration-absorber configurations for a range of real-world applications using network-synthesis-based design techniques.
- Working closely with PhD students and other Research Associates, contributing specialist expertise in vibration suppression, structural dynamics, and optimisation.
- Assisting the line manager in supporting PhD researchers and fostering a collaborative and productive research environment.
- Providing regular updates on research progress and contributing to the preparation of technical and project reports based on research findings.
- Helping to ensure that project activities are delivered to agreed timescales and within resource constraints.
You should apply if:
- Have a PhD, or be working towards one, in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
- Bring strong experience in vibration absorber design, particularly using network-synthesis-based techniques.
- Have a strong background in modelling multidomain vibration absorbers.
- Have research experience in automotive and/or railway vehicle dynamics.
- Be confident communicating technical ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing.
- Enjoy interdisciplinary research, problem-solving and working across different projects and priorities.
Additional information: To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog: staff blog.
Contract type: Fixed term (01/06/26 to 31/08/2026)
Work pattern: 35 hours/week
Shift pattern: Monday - Friday
Salary: £39,906 to £44,746 per annum.
Grade: I
Research Associate in Passive Vibration Absorber Synthesis in Bristol employer: University of Bristol
Contact Detail:
University of Bristol Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Passive Vibration Absorber Synthesis in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals! Attend conferences, workshops, or webinars related to vibration suppression and engineering. This is a great way for us to meet potential employers and learn about job openings that might not be advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a personal website where you can display your research projects, publications, and any relevant work. This gives us a chance to demonstrate our skills and passion for the field beyond just a CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to vibration absorber design and network-synthesis techniques. We should also be ready to discuss our past experiences and how they relate to the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we often have exclusive job postings that you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t miss out on the opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Passive Vibration Absorber Synthesis in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in vibration absorber design and network-synthesis techniques. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects or research!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about vibration suppression and how your skills can contribute to our innovative projects. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Research Experience: Since this role involves working closely with PhD students and academic staff, make sure to highlight any research experience you have, especially in automotive or railway dynamics. We’re looking for candidates who can bring valuable insights to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bristol
✨Know Your Vibration Absorbers
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of vibration absorber design, especially network-synthesis-based techniques. Be ready to discuss specific projects or experiences where you've applied these methods, as this will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with PhD students and academic staff, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past research projects. Highlight your ability to foster a productive environment and support others in their work.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. During the interview, aim to communicate your ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing. This will demonstrate your ability to convey important information effectively, which is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Real-World Applications
Think about how your research can impact real-world applications in automotive, railway, and wind energy sectors. Be ready to discuss how your work can contribute to improving resilience and cost-effectiveness in these industries, showing that you understand the broader implications of your research.