Research Associate / Fellow on Monitoring Concrete Structures Using Optical Fibres (Fixed-Term)
University of Nottingham – Faculty of Engineering, University Park campus.
Area: Civil Engineering
Location: University Park
Salary: £31,387 to £46,485
Closing Date: Monday 02 February 2026
Reference: ENG269725
This fixed‑term, full‑time research position (1 April 2026 – 31 March 2027) involves conducting a programme of research on flat optical fibre sensors to monitor reinforced‑concrete structures as part of the FOSSIC EPSRC funded project. The work package is laboratory‑based and includes embedding the sensors within CFRP laminates used to strengthen concrete specimens and monitoring strains during temperature‑controlled curing and load testing to determine capacity and failure modes. Collaboration will be with research partners at the Universities of Southampton, Bristol, Warwick, Hertfordshire and Wrexham.
Responsibilities
- Design, fabricate and embed flat optical fibre sensors in CFRP‑reinforced concrete specimens.
- Conduct laboratory experiments, including temperature‑controlled curing and load testing, and collect strain data using the optical sensors.
- Analyse data to assess structural performance, capacity and failure mechanisms.
- Publish results and contribute to project reports, conference presentations and peer‑reviewed publications.
- Collaborate with academic partners and industry stakeholders to advance the FOSSIC project objectives.
Qualifications
- PhD awarded or submitted in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related field involving optical sensors.
- Strong background in sensor technology, structural monitoring or materials science.
- Experience with laboratory testing of concrete or composite materials is desirable.
- Excellent analytical, computational and scientific communication skills.
Working Conditions
Flexible working arrangements are required to meet project demands. The position is full time, fixed‑term until 31 March 2027.
Equal Opportunities
University of Nottingham is a proud Disability Confident (Level 2) and Athena‑Swan Gold Award holder. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities under UK law.
Apply
Send CV, publication list and cover letter via the university’s online application portal. Direct e‑mail submissions to john.owen@nottingham.ac.uk or georgia.thermou@nottingham.ac.uk will not be accepted.
