The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. The university’s diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world‑class institution. We offer a fantastic range of benefits, including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase additional days), a generous pension scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
Overview
An exciting opportunity is available in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering for a Research Associate to apply computational and theoretical skills in fluid mechanics to revolutionise haemodialysis and make a profound impact on global health. The role will be based in the Sheffield Fluid Mechanics Group and will be closely linked with the Medical School and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. You will lead the theoretical and computational study of a novel, disruptive dialysate design, supervised by Professor Pierre Ricco. Your responsibilities will include theoretical analysis and numerical simulations of blood and dialysate flows and toxin passive scalar transport in a newly designed dialysate. You will collaborate with two other Research Associates to integrate experimental analysis and clinical validation, contributing to a greener, more efficient future for nephrology.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Develop the theoretical framework underpinning the fluid dynamics of blood and dialysate flows in the new dialysate, including modelling the toxin passive scalar transport through the porous membrane.
* Translate the theoretical framework into computational simulations of blood and dialysate flows and toxin transport using numerical software such as OpenFOAM.
* Investigate the system numerically by conducting a thorough parametric study of the toxin‑removal performance.
* Conduct a comparative analysis between numerical results and experimental data to validate and refine the simulations.
* Collaborate closely with the research team, including PIs, researchers and clinicians, to translate numerical results into physiological outcomes, attending weekly meetings with renal medicine experts.
* Document methodologies and findings and contribute to writing high‑impact journal publications, presenting at conferences and public engagement events.
* Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds and beliefs of all staff and students. We foster a culture of belonging and respect, encouraging applicants to apply even if their experience does not match perfectly. Please reference the application criteria in your application statement.
Essential or Desirable
* PhD (or nearing completion) in Computational Fluid Mechanics, or a closely related field.
* Essential: Significant experience developing numerical software for fluid flows, especially using OpenFOAM.
* Essential: Proven ability to manipulate and analyse the equations of fluid motion and passive scalar transport.
* Essential: Proven ability to simulate blood flows, passive scalar in flows and flows through porous media using OpenFOAM.
* Highly Desirable: Excellent data analysis skills, with experience post‑processing large volumes of computational data using MATLAB or Python.
* Essential: Proven ability to conduct high‑level scientific research independently.
* Essential: Proven ability to conduct high‑level scientific research collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
* Desirable: Proven track record of publishing high‑quality scientific papers in reputable journals.
* Essential: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, including technical report writing and delivering presentations.
* Essential: Ability to demonstrate initiative, creativity in problem‑solving, and effective decision‑making.
Further Information
* Grade: 7
* Salary: £38,784 - £47,389
* Work arrangement: Full‑time
* Duration: 24 months (start: 1st July 2026)
* Line manager: Project Co‑Lead
* Direct reports: None
* Our website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/mac
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place shortly after the application closing date. This will consist of a candidate’s presentation on their background and research experience and an interview. A small tour of the campus will also be given where possible. Full details will be provided to shortlisted candidates. We plan to inform applicants whether they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks after the application closing date. If you need any support or adjustments to enable you to participate fully, contact Mac Operations at mac-operations@sheffield.ac.uk.
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision.
What We Offer
* A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* Generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (e.g., Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development with access to learning and mentoring schemes, integrated with Academic Career Pathways.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies
o paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
o support for those going through the menopause
o paid time off and support for fertility treatment
o and more
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative, and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.
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