Job Description

We are looking for highly productive and ambitious researchers to become integral members of the Queen's University Belfast and Rolls-Royce collaborative research team, developing and deploying novel digital design methods and tools to support the structural design of next-generation aircraft propulsion systems. The post holders will undertake research into novel digital design tools, including geometry modelling, finite element simulation, optimisation, and will explore the opportunities for AI to enhance the digital design process. The role holders will carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretations of design methods and systems, and simulation data and literature using methodologies and other techniques appropriate for engineering research.
These roles are part of a large collaborative project, and as such there will be opportunities with travel, and working with researchers in other universities/companies.
About the person:
The successful applicants will have:

• Minimum 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in Mechanical, Aerospace, Automotive Engineering or closely related discipline; OR Be about to obtain a relevant PhD in Mechanical, Aerospace, Automotive Engineering or closely related discipline.
• Recent relevant research experience to include:

• Demonstrable experience in the advanced use of Digital Design tools including CAD, Finite Element modelling and/or optimisation.
• Demonstrable experience in extending or enhancing the capability of digital design tools.
• Experience in algorithm development and/or workflow automation for digital design processes.
• A proven track record of using relevant techniques to carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretations of data as relevant to the research project.
• In addition, candidates must be willing to undergo security vetting and training to enable effective operation and compliance with research standards.

To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.
What we offer:
Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more at
Queen's University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality.
For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit .
If you are an international applicant and don't already hold a visa that permits you to take up the role you are applying for, please use the information provided on our website to self-assess whether the University is likely to be able to support a visa application -

Skills Required