Research Associate / Senior Research Associate - Limit Cycle Characterization for High Aspect Ratio Wings with Semi Aeroelastic Hinge

The role

We are seeking a motivated interdisciplinary researcher to join the University of Bristol, as part of the Airbus led Aerospace Technology Institute / IUK funded DAWS2 project. The work involves the prediction of Limit Cycle Oscillations (LCO) and bifurcation analysis for preparation for wind tunnel / flight tests of aircraft wings incorporating a semi-aeroelastic hinge (SAH). Nonlinear simulation and analysis tools, including bifurcation and continuation analysis based upon lower order aeroelastic models, will be developed to predict LCO on highly flexible high aspect ratio wings (HARW) incorporating the SAH.

As part of the role, it would be expected that the candidate works closely with Airbus and other partners in the DAWS2 project, making regular presentations, writing progress reports and completing project deliverables.  The successful candidate will be part of a team of researchers working on different aspects of the DAWS2 project.

DAWS2 (Development of Advanced Wing Solutions) will focus on the development of Ultra Efficient technologies to cut fuel burn and weight, independent of the fuel choice, for a new high build rate product using wing span as a key enabler.

What will you be doing?

• Develop nonlinear aeroelastic modelling and simulation tools, including bifurcation and continuation analysis, for application to HARW / SAH configurations.
• Evaluate results from the simulations in comparison with CFD and experimental simulations.
• Undertake technical discussions with other partners in DAWS2 and researchers across the University of Bristol.
• Present results from this work at regular progress meetings.
• Produce written technical reports to meet the required deliverables of DAWS2 and also publish conference and journal papers arising from this work as appropriate.

You should apply if

• A 1^st class degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering (or related subject).
• Experience of numerical aeroelastic modelling of wings using low fidelity methods (e.g. vortex lattice, unsteady vortex lattice).  
• Experience in the modelling and analysis of nonlinear structures.
• Experience in the analysis and interpretation of data sets, including search and optimisation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proactive self-starter able to define & produce new processes & procedures.
• Inquisitive nature with an interest & skills in problem-solving.

For informal enquiries please contact: Dr Djamel Rezgui djamel.rezgui@bristol.ac.uk

Additional information

Contract type: Open ended (Fixed term funding until 31/5/2026)

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 4/11/2024

Our strategy and mission

We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.

Advert information