Research Associate in Intelligent Control Systems

We are seeking a Research Associate to take a key role in leading the development of an intelligent control platform for digital hydraulic valves, converters and technologies. The role is funded by the UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship exploring Digital Hydraulic Fluid Power Technologies for Decarbonising Off-road Vehicles.

Hydraulic fluid power has several advantages, such as high power density, compactness, low weight, fast response, and good controllability. However, the current hydraulic control method involves using valves to throttle flow, reduce pressure, and control the speed and force of the load. Although this approach is simple to operate, it is highly energy inefficient, and the average power efficiency of fluid power systems is only about 21%.

This project aims to develop an intelligent control platform for digital hydraulic valves, converters and technologies to significantly improve hydraulic energy efficiency, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions to decarbonise off-road vehicles for a sustainable and greener future. In addition, there are also opportunities to conduct commercialisation activities during the project.

You will be responsible for delivering high-quality research in this area, including:

• Designing and developing an intelligent control platform for digital hydraulic valves and converters.
• Prototyping and validating the control platform and digital hydraulic technologies.
• Digital fluid power control system integration and experimental validations.
• Stimulating and creating pathways to impact and disseminate the research outcomes and promote the exploitation of the new technologies. 

You will be responsible for planning and performing your own research activities and will be expected to take an active role in supporting PhD and undergraduate research students within the laboratory.

This position is offered on a fixed term basis for 18 months with a target start date of 1st November 2024. 

About you

Our ideal candidate will:

• Hold a PhD degree in a subject area of direct relevance for the project
• Have previous experience in one or more of the following: modelling, design, control or prototyping of fluid power components and systems
• Have excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
• Be self-motivated and have excellent communication skills

You should have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work as part of a team and discuss your work with a range of audiences. 

Further information

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Dr Min Pan, Reader, at mp351@bath.ac.uk however please ensure you submit your application through our website.

What we can offer you:

• a very generous employer contributory pension scheme
• generous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balance
• we are a family-friendly University & with an increasingly agile workforce, are open to flexible working arrangements
• an excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforce
• a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities
• a number of support options available for new and existing staff to help with the cost of some immigration expenses which you may be eligible for: Relocation allowance, Visa Reimbursement, Interest-Free Loan.

Find out more about our benefits.

We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected & encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality & intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, & backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees & students.

Advert information