Research Assistant

Type of contract: Full-time, project limited for 18 months

The North-East of Scotland is poised to play a strategic role in advancing hydrogen economies across the UK and Europe. Leveraging its extensive deployment of wind power, the region has the potential to become the UK's green energy hub by producing and exporting green hydrogen, thereby strengthening the entire UK supply chain. Repurposing offshore oil and gas infrastructure for hydrogen technologies—such as integrating wind farms with water electrolysis on platforms—can extend the life of existing assets, save millions of pounds, deliver green energy nationwide, and foster circular economies.

The project aims to assess the effects of hydrogen (H2) on the structural integrity of steels and develop advanced barrier materials to mitigate H2 embrittlement and structural failures in pipelines. Lasting 18 months, the job holder will be employed and supported by The School of Engineering at The University of Aberdeen in Aberdeen UK and have regular meetings with the project partners including John Lawrie Metals, Lithuanian Energy Institute, Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group, ABL Group, Drager Safety UK Ltd, European Marine Energy Centre, Net Zero Technology Centre, Statera Energy Ltd.

The project brings together academics from various engineering fields with industry partners, offering a broad spectrum of expertise. The School of Engineering is home to several internationally renowned research centres, including Micro- and Nano-mechanics and Applied Dynamics Research. The University of Aberdeen also boasts advanced laboratory facilities, such as multiscale microscopy equipped with an in-situ testing rig (featuring X-ray tomography, SEM, EBSD, EDX, optical microscopy).

Salary will be at the appropriate point on Grade 5, £32,296 per annum.

Informal enquiries should be made to Dr. Alfonso Martinez-Felipe, Senior Lecturer in Engineering, a.martinez-felipe@abdn.ac.uk or Dr. Mehmet Kartal, Reader in Engineering

mehmet.kartal@abdn.ac.uk or Dr. Amir Siddiq, Reader in Engineering

amir.siddiq@abdn.ac.uk

This post does not meet the minimum requirements for visa sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route. We are therefore unable to consider applicants for this post that require sponsorship to work in the UK.

Type of Contract: Full-time, project limited for 18 months

To apply online for this position click the 'Apply' button above.

Job Reference Number: ENG234R

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 20^th January 2025

The School of Engineering embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring. Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.

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