Advanced Research Engineer

Advanced Research Engineer Advanced Composites
Location: Bristol Hours: 37 per week Hybrid: 2 days on-site Salary: 46,355 - 58,038

About the Role
We are seeking an Advanced Research Engineer to lead high-impact R&D programmes in advanced composite materials. This is an exciting opportunity for a technically strong engineer with a solid foundation in materials science, hands-on manufacturing experience, and a passion for translating research into real-world industrial solutions. You will play a key role in developing innovative fibre architectures, resin systems, and multifunctional composites for aerospace, high-performance engineering, and other industrial sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver complex R&D programmes focused on advanced composites, manufacturing processes, and structural performance.

• Apply materials science expertise to develop novel fibre architectures, resin systems, and multifunctional composites.

• Collaborate with industry partners, government stakeholders, and academia to accelerate technology readiness and adoption.

• Mentor junior engineers and researchers to foster technical excellence and collaborative growth.

• Prepare technical documentation, proposals, and publications.

• Ensure compliance with project security protocols for roles requiring DV clearance.

What We're Looking For

• UK National eligible to obtain and maintain Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.

• Degree, MSc, or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Strong understanding of composite materials, design, processing, and performance characteristics.

• Proven track record of leading R&D projects and delivering tangible outcomes.

• Industry experience, ideally in aerospace, high-performance engineering, or related sectors.

• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and project leadership skills.

Desirable Attributes

• Familiarity with 3D textile technologies (weaving, braiding, embroidery) for composites.

• Knowledge of advanced materials, coatings, CVD/CVI, meta-surfaces, or high-temperature composites.

• Experience with destructive/non-destructive testing, digital design tools, simulation software, and automated manufacturing.

• Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.

• Awareness of sustainability and circularity in composite materials.