Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Grade: Grade 5 £26,707 - £31,236
Contract Type: Full Time (1.0 FTE), Fixed Term (4 Months)
Detailed Description
This role focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of a digital twin model for on-site, renewable-driven green hydrogen generation systems. The successful candidate will contribute to an industry-sponsored applied research project, involving advanced system modelling, data analytics, and process optimisation to support next-generation hydrogen technologies.
The digital twin framework will incorporate real time electrolyzer performance which integration with renewable energy inputs (e.g., solar PV), real-time data interpretation, and techno-economic evaluation for system deployment and operational decision-making.
The postholder will work closely with academic and industrial partners as part of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS), Heriot-Watt University — a global leader in net-zero energy research and innovation.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Plan and conduct simulation and modelling activities aligned with project milestones under the guidance of the line manager
• Develop and refine a digital twin framework, incorporating systems engineering principles, real operational data, and control system modelling
• Validate the industry partner’s digital twin model and identify performance gaps through real-world demonstration datasets
• Assess system performance under variable renewable energy conditions and operational settings
• Prepare high-quality research outputs, including technical reports, presentations, and documentation
• Manage structured datasets, version-controlled simulation models, and model validation records
• Cooperate with internal and external collaborators to support industrial deployment and knowledge exchange opportunities
• Support laboratory-based experimentation where digital models will be benchmarked against physical systems
• Provide informal support to postgraduate and undergraduate students contributing to project activities
• Contribute to the preparation of future grant proposals and industrial collaboration opportunities
• Participate in outreach and knowledge-transfer activities such as demonstrations, school engagement, and public talks
We welcome applications from creative and motivated master’s degree candidates and early-career researchers who demonstrate strong initiative and a collaborative mindset.
About our Team
You will join the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS) — an internationally leading centre delivering advanced technologies to enable global net-zero goals. RCCS hosts world-class experimental labs, digital design facilities, and a diverse community of interdisciplinary researchers.
More information is available on the RCCS website.
Education, Qualifications & Experience
Essential
• Master’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science (e.g., Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Electronics & Communication, Energy, Renewables, Physics)
• Practical experience in system modelling, digital twin development, or mathematical optimisation
• Competency in simulation and design tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS/COMSOL, CAD-based environments)
• Strong analytical skills and understanding of hydrogen or electrochemical energy systems
• Ability to work independently, manage tasks, and meet defined deadlines
• Effective communication skills demonstrated through scientific writing or technical reporting
• Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary research environment
Desirable
1. Demonstrated experience in electrolyser operation, control systems modelling, and integration with renewable energy systems
2. Familiarity with Data Analog Convertor (DAC) platforms, including data acquisition and seamless transfer of electrolysis cell performance data to digital dashboards
3. Hands-on expertise in developing prototype-scale digital twin tools for system monitoring, optimisation, and predictive maintenance
4. Good understanding of engineering system deployment, including industrial design constraints, compliance requirements, and operational safety considerations
5. Proven track record of contributing to industry-linked and innovation-driven research projects, delivering outputs aligned with commercial or societal impact goals