Research Assistant/Research Fellow - 15658

Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus

Salary:

Research Assistant: Grade R1 from £35,490 to £37,488 per annum inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £38,532 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution. (Pro-rata for Part-time)

Research Fellow: Grade R1 from £39,607 to £44,240 per annum inclusive of London Weighting with potential to progress to £46,771 per annum inclusive of London Weighting through sustained exceptional contribution. (Pro-rata for Part-time)

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract until 31 March 2025

Brunel University London was established in 1966 and is a leading multidisciplinary research-intensive technology university delivering economic, social and cultural benefits. For more information please visit: https://www.brunel.ac.uk/about/our-history/home.

The College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences at Brunel University London has been awarded a grant by InnovateUK as academic partner in a consortium for Wind and Aquaculture Support Vessel: Emission less Sailing with Autonomous Integration (WAVES). We are seeking a talented researcher to undertake project efforts in optimizing onboard power systems for vessels operating within port environments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in electrical engineering, with expertise in power systems analysis, energy management, and optimization techniques.

The appointee will be expected to:

1. Conduct comprehensive analysis of onboard power systems, including generation, distribution, and consumption components, to identify opportunities for optimization and efficiency improvements.

2. Develop mathematical models and simulation tools to represent the dynamic behaviour of onboard power systems under various operating conditions and loads.

3. Utilize optimization algorithms to optimize the operation of onboard power systems, considering factors such as fuel consumption, emissions, and system reliability.

4. Collaborate closely with project stakeholders to understand operational requirements, constraints, and performance objectives.

5. Investigate advanced control strategies and energy management techniques to maximize the utilization of renewable energy sources and minimize environmental impact, including making ships hydrogen-ready, ammonia-ready, and compatible with other emerging propulsion technologies.

6. Evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of alternative power generation technologies, energy storage solutions, and hybrid power systems for maritime applications, with a focus on hydrogen and ammonia propulsion systems.

7. Conduct sensitivity analysis and scenario planning to assess the resilience of onboard power systems to disruptions and unexpected events, including the integration of hydrogen and ammonia fuelling infrastructure.

8. Communicate research findings, optimization results, and recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders through reports, presentations, and technical documentation.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate some essential characteristics: a PhD degree (or be near completion for the Research Assistant role) in Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, Applied Mathematics, or related field with a focus on modelling and optimization; strong background in power systems analysis, control theory, and optimization techniques, with experience in maritime applications preferred; familiarity with onboard power generation technologies, energy storage systems, and power electronics for marine applications, including hydrogen and ammonia propulsion systems; strong understanding of energy systems dynamics, renewable energy technologies, and grid integration challenges.

For further information, please contact Dr Ioana Pisica on ioana.pisica@brunel.ac.uk.

Closing date for applications: 21 May 2024

Brunel University London has a strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. Our aim is to promote and achieve a fully inclusive workforce to reflect our community.

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