At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and manufacture test rigs for innovative aerodynamics projects in urban air mobility.
- Company: Join the University of Bristol, a leader in aerospace research with cutting-edge facilities.
- Benefits: Collaborate with industry leaders, gain hands-on experience, and contribute to sustainable aviation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of aviation while working with top researchers across Europe.
- Qualifications: MEng/MSc or PhD in aerodynamics, strong project management, and data analysis skills required.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to start by August 2026 in a dynamic research environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The role involves a Horizon Europe funded project (eVTOLUTION) aimed at demonstrating novel technologies for propeller aerodynamic and aeroacoustic design. The focus is on developing experimental and numerical tools to enhance the design and evaluation processes for next-generation propellers dedicated to electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles for Urban Air Mobility applications. This project offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with industrial and academic partners, including GKN-UK and Vertical Aerospace, contributing to sustainable aviation.
You will join a team of highly motivated researchers across Europe at the University of Bristol, which houses the UK National Wind Tunnel Facilities, specifically designed for propeller aerodynamics and aeroacoustics.
As a successful candidate, you will:
- Design new test rigs and coordinate the fabrication process.
- Lead the test rig instrumentation for wind tunnel testing.
- Demonstrate strong project management skills and prior knowledge of experimental aerodynamic measurement techniques.
Please note that, due to operational requirements, we would like the successful applicant to start in post preferably by August 2026 or soon after.
What will you be doing?
You will be responsible for designing and manufacturing test set-ups and providing technical assistance to team members during the project. You will liaise with project partners and team members at the University of Bristol to collect design information and communicate with manufacturing teams and external suppliers to deliver the new test rigs in time for wind tunnel testing.
You should apply if you:
- Have an MEng/MSc or PhD (not essential) degree in aerodynamics/a related field or equivalent professional qualification/experience or are working towards one.
- Have experience and good knowledge in aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, and wind tunnel testing.
- Have strong experience of PIV, Hotwire CTA, and pressure measurement techniques and relevant post-processing techniques.
- Have extensive data post-processing and analytics skills using Matlab, Python, or similar programming language.
- Have strong experience of using design software and fabrication tools, such as CNC.
- Have strong project management skills.
- Are able to start in post preferably by August 2026 or soon after.
Senior Research Associate in Aerodynamics in London employer: University of Bristol
Contact Detail:
University of Bristol Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate in Aerodynamics in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the aerodynamics field! Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships; you never know who might have a lead on your 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 test rigs and wind tunnel testing. We want to see you shine, so share specific examples of your past projects and how they relate to the role!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Don’t just send out generic messages! Tailor your communication to each company and role. Mention how your skills in PIV, Hotwire CTA, and project management align with their needs. We’re all about making that personal connection!
✨Apply Through Our Website
We highly recommend applying through our website for the best chance at landing that Senior Research Associate position. It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and get you in front of the right people quickly!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate in Aerodynamics in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior Research Associate in Aerodynamics. Highlight your experience with aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with the eVTOLUTION project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your project management skills and experience with wind tunnel testing.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Be sure to include specific examples of your technical skills, especially in PIV, Hotwire CTA, and pressure measurement techniques. We love seeing how you’ve applied these in real-world scenarios, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bristol
✨Know Your Aerodynamics
Brush up on your aerodynamics knowledge, especially related to propeller design and wind tunnel testing. Be ready to discuss specific techniques like PIV and Hotwire CTA, as well as your experience with data post-processing using tools like Matlab or Python.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of past projects where you successfully managed timelines and coordinated with teams. Highlight how you ensured that test rigs were delivered on time and how you communicated effectively with both academic and industrial partners.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Project Partners
Research GKN-UK and Vertical Aerospace, understanding their contributions to the UAM community. Being able to reference their work during the interview will show your genuine interest in the project and its impact on sustainable aviation.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask about the eVTOLUTION project and the team dynamics at the University of Bristol. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
