Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Passively Actuated Spoilers

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 design, build, test and evaluation of a prototype design of a passively actuated gust load alleviation spoiler. The performance of the spoiler will be compared and evaluated with lower order simulations and wind tunnel test data generated elsewhere in DAWS2.

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?

• Design, build and test an aeroelastic wind tunnel model to experimentally validate that the passive spoiler design is capable of alleviating gust loads.
• Evaluation of results from the wind tunnel tests.
• 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 the design of aeroelastic wing tunnel models including passively actuated spoilers.
• Experience of static and dynamic wind tunnel testing.
• Experience in the analysis and interpretation of numerical data sets oral and written communication skills.
• Are a self-starter and proactive; able to define & produce new processes & procedures.
• Inquisitive nature with an interest & skills in problem-solving.
• 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.

Additional information

For informal queries please contact: Prof Ann Gaitonde ann.gaitonde@bristol.ac.uk (line manager to the role).

To find out more about what it's like to work in the Faculty of Engineering, and how the Faculty supports people to achieve their potential, please see our staff blog:

https://engineeringincludesme.blogs.bristol.ac.uk/

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

School/Unit: School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 6th February 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place on 18th February 2025.

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