Location: Other
Contract type: Fixed term (24 months, funding time is limited)
You will be employed within the School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. This role is located at Ventrolla Ltd., Unit 2 Crimple Court, Hornbeam Park, Harrogate, HG2 8PB.
Do you hold a PhD or Master’s degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline? Do you have a strong background in Electronics or Renewable Energy systems? Are you interested in leading on a multi-disciplinary project between academia and industry?
As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will be tasked with developing an automated Sash-style timber window, utilising smart control technology to maximise energy efficiency, manage interior climate control, and enhance user accessibility. You will embed core knowledge of advanced motor and power supply systems within Ventrolla and upskill existing workforces in these areas whilst delivering a future‑proofed product that will realise the company’s strategic vision and establish Ventrolla further in the automated technology market.
By working with the academic team at the University of Leeds you will contribute to the production of high‑impact journal publications and generate valuable datasets on energy performance, user interaction, and climate‑responsive design. You will be given the opportunity to work closely with experts in architecture and electrical engineering, contributing to impactful case studies for national research assessments and helping shape the future of sustainable retrofit innovation.
Ventrolla Ltd., based in Harrogate, is a UK market leader in the restoration and replacement of sash and casement timber windows, with over 40 years of experience serving both residential and commercial sectors. Working with Ventrolla and the University of Leeds on this project is a unique opportunity to support the UK’s net‑zero goals by utilising cutting‑edge research capabilities to develop energy‑efficient, smart technologies that blend heritage and craftsmanship with modern automation.
Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route but first‑time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa.
For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/global-talent.
To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact:
Academic supervisor
Dr Sadegh Azizi – Lecturer in Smart Energy Systems
Email: S.Azizi@leeds.ac.uk
Company supervisor
Trevor Watson – Production Manager
Email: Trevor.watson@ventrolla.co.uk
James Hartford
Innovation Support Co‑ordinator (University of Leeds)
Email: J.Hartford@leeds.ac.uk
£34,000 to £42,500. In addition to salary, a Personal Development budget of £4,000 (Off grading structure)
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