Research Fellow - School of Engineering - 105392 - Grade 7

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job description

Position Details

School of Engineering

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to April 2026

Closing date: 16th April 2025

Are you considering a career at the University of Birmingham? Our Recruitment Team is hosting one-to-one conversations to help you understand the application process, provide updates on existing applications, and answer general questions about working at the University. Our next appointments are available on Friday 28th March; click here to book. Further dates and opportunities to connect with us in person will be advertised on future job listings.

Background

The Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Birmingham is seeking to appoint a Research Fellow for a 13-month position to work on a recently funded UKRI research grant. The successful candidate will lead research exploring the application of biochar as a sustainable and carbon-negative material for the construction industry.

This is an interdisciplinary project, working closely with experts in building energy modelling and social sciences to optimise biochar-based materials for construction (e.g., integrating biochar into concrete and bricks).

The role will involve analysing various biochar samples produced through different feedstocks and synthesis processes to assess their suitability for use in building materials. The characterisation of biochar will utilise a range of experimental techniques, including scanning electron microscopy and laser particle size distribution analysis, among others.

Additionally, the project will require rigorous testing of biochar-based building materials to achieve the desired mechanical properties in consultation with industry partners. These tests will include compressive strength testing, microstructural analysis, and durability assessments, such as freeze/thaw cycle testing.

All experimental work will be conducted using the state-of-the-art facilities within the Civil Engineering Laboratories at the University of Birmingham.

Role Summary

• Work within the research grant and support the project team
• Lead research works on experimental tests on construction materials
• Analyse and interpret research findings and results
• Write reports, scientific journal papers, and present at international conferences based on the project findings
• Contribute to licensing or spin-out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar
• Contribute to writing future bids

Main Duties

The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.

• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance from the investigators if required
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Analyse and interpret data
• Apply knowledge in a way that develops new intellectual understanding
• Disseminate research findings for publication, research seminars, etc.
• Supervise students on research-related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques, and methods
• Undertake management/administration arising from research
• Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration
• Contribute to enterprise, business development, and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader
• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Provide guidance, as required, to support staff and any students who may be assisting with the research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Promote equality and value diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.

Person Specification

• First degree in civil engineering, a higher degree relevant to Civil Engineering/construction materials or equivalent qualifications
• Experience of conducting experimental testing on construction materials is essential
• Knowledge of biochar application in the construction/building sector is desirable
• Knowledge of working in an interdisciplinary research team/project is desirable
• Ability of data analysis and data presentation are essential
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques, or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.

Informal enquiries to Dr Moura Mehravar, email: [e-mail]

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.