The Role
The Microsystems Research Group is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant/Research Associate to support the Northern Net Zero Impact Accelerator (NNZA) project: “Real-time Control and Optimisation for Boosting Microbial Electrolysis Cell Performance in Energy-Efficient Wastewater Treatment.”
This project aims to advance a TRL6 controller prototype for microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) to TRL7, enabling real-time optimisation of applied voltage and current to enhance wastewater treatment efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve biogas production (hydrogen and methane).
The successful candidate will contribute to the design, development, testing, and
deployment of a real-time control and monitoring system integrating:
• Embedded hardware platforms;
• Control algorithms (e.g. PID, PWM);
• IoT communication (WiFi/LoRaWAN);
• Data acquisition and analysis pipelines.
The role involves close collaboration with:
• Academic team members;
• Industrial partners (Northumbrian Water Group, METzero Ltd);
• Field deployment environments (wastewater treatment facilities);
Duration of the post is 12 months.
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To apply please upload a copy of your CV and cover letter evidencing how your skills and experiences align to the person specification as outlined within the job description.
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Key Accountabilities
Research Assistant
1. Design and implement embedded control systems for real-time optimisation of MEC performance and develop control algorithms for adaptive system behaviour
2. Integrate hardware/software co-design solutions for monitoring voltage, current, and system performance and develop data acquisition and remote monitoring systems using IoT technologies (e.g. LoRaWAN/WiFi);
3. Collect, analyse and interpret research data and draw conclusions on the outcomes.
4. Co-ordinate own work with that of others, use problem solving to affect the achievement of research objectives and contribute to the planning of the project(s).
5. Present information on research progress and outcomes to a Principal Investigator or groups overseeing the research project.
6. Write up results from own research activity and provide input into the research project’s dissemination, in whatever form (report, papers, chapters, books).
7. Use research resources (including, where required, laboratories, workshops and specialist equipment) as appropriate
Research Associate
8. Design and implement embedded control systems for real-time optimisation of MEC performance and develop control algorithms for adaptive system behaviour
9. Integrate hardware/software co-design solutions for monitoring voltage, current, and system performance and develop data acquisition and remote monitoring systems using IoT technologies (e.g. LoRaWAN/WiFi)
10. Contribute ideas, including enhancements to the technical or methodological aspects of the project
11. Determine appropriate methodologies for research
12. Assess research findings for the need/scope for further investigations
13. Contribute to the writing up of the research and its dissemination, either through seminar and conference presentations or through publications
14. Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets appropriate to the discipline
15. Contribute to grant applications submitted by others and develop own research objectives and proposals for funding
The Person
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Research Assistant
16. Strong background in embedded systems design and electronic engineering with knowledge of control systems (e.g. PID controllers, feedback systems)
17. Experience with microcontrollers and embedded programming, and understanding of hardware/software co-design principles
18. Experience in data acquisition systems and sensor integration, and knowledge of low-power and energy-efficient system design
19. Experience with PCB design and prototyping, and ability to conduct experimental testing and data analysis
20. Attention to detail and ability to work at high levels of accuracy
21. Ability to present complex information effectively to a range of audiences
22. Proven ability to analyse data and write-up results
23. Experience of working collaboratively with colleagues
24. Excellent IT skills in all major office applications
25. The ability to use personal initiative and creativity to solve research problems
In addition for Research Associate
26. Awareness of the research environment
27. High level of analytical and problem solving capacity
28. Ability to communicate complex information with clarity
29. Experience of presentations at conferences and/or in high quality publications
Attributes and Behavior
30. Commitment to working positively as a member of a multi-skilled research team
31. Ability to negotiate and prioritise multiple, competing responsibilities and to work to deadlines
32. Commitment to continued professional development
33. Understanding of good practice in equality, inclusion and diversity
Qualifications
Research Assistant
34. Honours degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Embedded Systems, Computer Engineering or a closely related discipline
Research Associate
35. PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Embedded Systems, or related field
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We are committed to being a fully inclusive university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from individuals who can complement our existing teams, we believe that success is built on having teams whose backgrounds and experiences reflect the diversity of our university and student population.
At Newcastle University we hold a Gold award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality. We also hold a Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC. We are a employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.
In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.
Requisition ID: 29266