Here at the University of Derby, the College of Science and Engineering is the home of STEM, the skills that are essential to the UK’s Industrial Strategy. From digitisation to decarbonisation, we have an important role to play in shaping the future. And by researching or collaborating with us, you can too.
The College brings together a powerful combination of scientific expertise, technological innovation, and creative practice. With disciplines spanning computing, AI, Data Science, engineering, environmental sciences, built environments and Psychology, we are uniquely positioned to solve real-world challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.
About the Role
We are seeking a Researcher to join an exciting collaborative project in partnership with Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK), a leading global industry partner. This role combines applied research with practical development, focusing on innovative solutions that address real-world challenges.
This project will support the development of a new, lightweight Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) at TMUK’s Burnaston site. The vehicle will meet the rising demand for eco‑friendly micro‑mobility with features including a solar roof, advanced connectivity, and sustainable materials ensuring end‑of‑recovery and recycling. It supports the UK’s move to zero‑emission transport, boosts the supply chain, and secures jobs at TMUK. By developing a ready‑to‑produce design, the project opens new market opportunities and positions the UK as a leader in sustainable urban mobility and advanced automotive manufacturing.
The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) has funded this £30.3 million project through the UK Government’s DRIVE35 Collaborate programme, and aims to meet the evolving needs of urban populations while accelerating the shift to zero tailpipe emission transport by validating a novel, lightweight battery electric vehicle (BEV) in the L6e category.
The University of Derby will play a critical role in the project, leading on real‑world testing and analysis, leveraging its expertise in micromobility user behaviour and solar energy viability. Together, the consortium partners are studying how to shape a smarter and more sustainable future for urban mobility across Europe. Acting as a ‘living lab,’ the University will evaluate how the BEV fits evolving patterns of sustainable urban mobility and assess its potential to transform city transport.
As micromobility becomes central to the future of urban transport, this study marks a vital step toward understanding and meeting the evolving mobility needs of city populations, while accelerating the shift toward reduced congestion emissions and enhanced urban accessibility. The research aligns with the University of Derby’s flagship Derby Urban Sustainable Transport Transition (DUST) project, focused on enhancing the city’s green spaces and promoting low‑carbon mobility.
By applying innovations in data‑centric engineering, market demand opportunities along with user engagement and experience, we will explore how novel technologies will be adopted and accepted such that micromobility reaches the most appropriate users and locations, maximising accessibility and effectiveness.
As a Researcher involved in this project, you will contribute ideas, carry out research, development and tests. You will also support student supervision, contribute to project planning and reporting, and present your research findings. The position involves close collaboration with academic colleagues, engineers, and industry partners, contributing to publications, demonstrations, and stakeholder engagement.
This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of research and industry, delivering impactful outcomes that shape the future.
About You
We are looking for a researcher with expertise in software and data‑driven solutions. You will hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Intelligent Transport Systems, Human‑Computer Interaction, or a closely related discipline. Alternatively, you may have equivalent professional experience at an advanced level in mobile application development and data engineering within industry or research settings.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in designing, developing, and deploying modern applications – preferably mobile apps for Android, iOS, or using cross‑platform frameworks such as React Native or Flutter – and/or rich web applications. A strong track record of producing high‑quality outputs, such as peer‑reviewed publications, technical reports, open‑source software, or demonstrators, is essential.
You will bring developing research skills and the ability to creatively apply relevant approaches, models, and techniques. Strong collaboration skills are key, with the ability to build relationships and work effectively with colleagues internally and externally.
Benefits
* Generous annual leave entitlement of 47 days inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days (pro rata)
* Teacher’s Pension Scheme
* Suite of holistic wellbeing benefits and support including family‑friendly policies, generous sick pay provision and comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme
* Access to a variety of staff discounts at high‑street retailers
* Discounted onsite gym
* Cycle to Work scheme
* A flexible working environment
* A commitment to personal and professional development
Key Contact
For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Suleiman Aliyu, Lecturer in Internet of Things via s.aliyu@derby.ac.uk
For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk
#J-18808-Ljbffr