Research Associate in Predictive Modelling in Complex Uncertain Environments

Contract Type: Fixed-term until 30 September 2026

Working Pattern: 100%

This post is an opportunity to join a world-leading Dynamics Research Group within one of the top Engineering faculties in the UK, as a Research Associate.

The project will see the development of hybrid models for structural dynamics, with the ultimate aim of improving the current techniques used to assess the condition and safety of aerospace structures. Where structures operate in complex dynamic environments, current technology is unable to sufficiently quantify or predict their behaviours to provide an accurate estimate of remaining fatigue life. In direct collaboration with aerospace industries, this project will develop a transformative approach for response prediction and fatigue usage quantification that takes advantage of the strengths of established knowledge and physics-based models in combination with the flexibility and power of artificial intelligence.

We are looking for an outstanding person with an interest and expertise in machine learning, structural health monitoring and structural dynamics. The appointed researcher will be advantaged in working in one of the world’s best and largest Dynamics Research Groups. You will be well supported and will actively be encouraged to attend conferences and publish in high quality peer reviewed journals. You should possess a good honours degree in either Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics or another relevant discipline. You should have a PhD in a relevant discipline or be currently close to completing one. You will have excellent research skills and the ability to communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, as well as experience of writing high-quality journal papers and presenting your work at international conferences.

What We Offer: 

• 41 days annual leave (including closure days and Bank Holidays), with the possibility to purchase up to ten additional days.
• Up to 5 days of paid time off to cover emergency caring responsibilities.
• A commitment to work life balance including, flexible working opportunities and hybrid working where possible.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Discounts at participating shops and cinemas, and a cycle to work scheme.
• A commitment to your development, with programmes, learning modules and mentoring schemes.
• An inclusive and diverse workplace.
• A commitment to your wellbeing, with confidential emotional support, support for those going through the menopause, experiencing fertility treatment and having a baby, paid leave for IVF treatment and more.

Further information can be found at https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits

We are committed to exploring flexible working opportunities which benefit the individual and University.

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

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