Job Description
Position Details
School of Engineering
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906
Grade: 6
Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to January 2027
Closing date: 8th April 2026
Background
This project is part of an industry-focused research programme aimed at supporting the safe and efficient operation of freight trains. The main aim is to develop a scientific understanding of the aerodynamic and dynamic forces acting on scrap loads within freight wagons under realistic operating conditions. The Research Associate will support this programme by contributing to data collection, analysis, and modelling activities that generate new knowledge on train aerodynamics and load stability. The role will involve assisting with experimental studies, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and analytical modelling to characterise flow fields, quantify peak aerodynamic loads, and evaluate conditions that could lead to scrap movement. Through these activities, the post holder will help produce the technical evidence base required to inform operational guidance and industry standards, while supporting the wider research group in delivering project outputs and advancing research excellence.
Role Summary
* Contribute to the delivery of defined research grants and projects, ensuring objectives, milestones, and reporting requirements are met.
* Apply specialist expertise in aerodynamics, CFD, and experimental methods to support project activities and advance research outcomes.
* Support the preparation and dissemination of research outputs, including contributions to high-quality publications and presentations.
Main Duties
* Conduct high-quality research by generating data through CFD simulations of train aerodynamics, experimental testing using the TRAIN Rig facility in Derby, and comprehensive literature reviews.
* Analyse and interpret research data in line with project objectives and supervisory guidance.
* Disseminate research findings through presentations, seminars, posters, and contributions to peer‑reviewed publications.
* Develop, implement, and refine advanced techniques, computational models, and methodological approaches to support project aims.
* Provide technical guidance and support to research staff, collaborators, and students contributing to the project.
* Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical or logistical challenges that may impact research progress, milestones, or deadlines.
* Undertake administrative and organisational tasks directly related to project delivery, reporting, and compliance requirements.
* Champion equality, diversity, and inclusion by acting as a positive role model and fostering a respectful and supportive research environment.
Person Specification
* A degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline such as Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.
* Demonstrable experience in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), including proficiency in ANSYS Workbench tools and software and the application of a range of CFD approaches and turbulence models, with particular emphasis on high‑fidelity numerical modelling.
* Practical experience in collecting and analysing experimental data using a PIV system.
* Practical experience in applying aerodynamic analysis techniques within the transportation sector or closely related engineering domains.
* Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and communicate findings clearly and effectively.
* Proven ability to identify, access, and organise resources efficiently to support research or project delivery.
* Sound understanding of the protected characteristics defined in the Equality Act 2010, and a demonstrable commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in day‑to‑day professional practice.
Informal enquiries to Hassan Hemida, email: h.hemida@bham.ac.uk
Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.
We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.
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