Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Investigate and develop cutting-edge compressor designs for next-gen aircraft engines.
- Company: Join the prestigious Whittle Laboratory at the University of Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, fixed-term contract until 2028, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace technology and work on innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Knowledge in turbomachinery aerodynamics and experience in experimental testing required.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with excellent collaboration and career advancement opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 46049 £ per year.
A position exists for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering to work on compressor aerodynamics at the Whittle Laboratory. You would develop key technologies and designs to enable the next generation of axial compressors required by Rolls-Royce UltraFan engines for both wide and narrow body aircraft.
Two Specific Challenges
- First, the Rolls-Royce UltraFan has completely changed the architecture of the compression system, opening the design space and enabling new technologies that can improve performance and reduce fuel burn. You would lead the experimental campaigns on the rapid test facilities built at the Whittle Laboratory.
- Second, engines do not stay pristine for long; real geometric features such as roughness or damage affect the flow in a three-dimensional way that is difficult or impossible to assess with simulation. Rapid experiment is the solution to determine the key phenomena and how they affect real engines on the wing.
The Key Responsibilities And Duties
- Experimentally investigate new and deteriorated axial compressor designs
- Design and commissioning of experimental hardware
- Running and processing concept geometries
- Comparison with CFD or other low-order design methods
- Determining underlying three-dimensional flow mechanisms
- Writing research publications and attending conferences
- Writing project reports and attending meetings with project partners
The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are:
- Knowledge in turbomachinery aerodynamics
- Expertise in experimental testing in wind tunnels or rotating rigs
- Experience of managing own work load and working with initiative
- Excellent communication skills
- Experience of CFD simulations in turbomachinery
- Experience of working with industry
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD (or equivalent experience). Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Salary Ranges
- Research Assistant: GBP 33,002 - GBP 35,608
- Research Associate: GBP 37,694 - GBP 46,049
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 December 2028 in the first instance.
Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter and publication list in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.
If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact James Taylor (jvt24@cam.ac.uk) for queries of a technical nature related to the role and Juliet Teather (jet63@cam.ac.uk) for queries related to the application process.
Please quote reference NM48690 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Research Assistant/Associate in Compressor Aerodynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge Vet School
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Vet School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant/Associate in Compressor Aerodynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to compressor aerodynamics. Attend relevant events or webinars and don’t be shy to introduce yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of turbomachinery aerodynamics and experimental testing. Think about how your skills can contribute to the challenges mentioned in the job description. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms – it’ll impress your interviewers!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for research! When you get the chance, talk about your previous projects and how they relate to the role. Highlight any experience with CFD simulations or experimental setups, as these are key to the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Make sure your CV and covering letter are tailored to the role, focusing on your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant/Associate in Compressor Aerodynamics (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Research Assistant/Associate in Compressor Aerodynamics. Highlight your experience in turbomachinery aerodynamics and experimental testing, as these are key for us at the Whittle Laboratory.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share your passion for compressor aerodynamics and how your skills align with the challenges we face in developing next-gen axial compressors.
Showcase Your Publications: If you have any research publications, make sure to include them in your application. This is a great way for us to see your contributions to the field and your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Follow Application Instructions: Be sure to follow all the application instructions carefully. Upload your CV, cover letter, and publication list as specified, and don’t forget to quote reference NM48690. We want to make sure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge Vet School
✨Know Your Aerodynamics
Brush up on your knowledge of turbomachinery aerodynamics before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific concepts and how they relate to the role, especially in the context of axial compressors and the challenges faced by Rolls-Royce UltraFan engines.
✨Showcase Your Experimental Skills
Highlight your experience with experimental testing in wind tunnels or rotating rigs. Bring examples of past projects where you designed or commissioned experimental hardware, and be ready to explain your approach to running and processing concept geometries.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are a must for this role. Practice articulating complex ideas simply and clearly, as you'll need to convey your findings in reports and presentations. Consider preparing a brief summary of a research publication you've worked on to demonstrate your writing skills.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to CFD simulations and three-dimensional flow mechanisms. Review relevant literature and be ready to discuss how you would approach comparing experimental results with CFD or low-order design methods.
