Research Associate in Nonlinear System Identification and Modelling

Research Associate - Nonlinear System Identification and Modelling

Posted: 03/06/2026 - Closing: 01/07/2026

Department:
Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering - School of Engineering.

Role:
Full Time (Hybrid) - Fixed Term 36 months, Salary £38,784 - £47,389 per annum.

The Dynamics Research Group is seeking a Research Associate to work on the EPSRC-funded "New Ways Forward in Nonlinear Structural Dynamics" project under Professor Keith Worden. Research will focus on developing and validating novel nonlinear system identification and modelling methods using symbolic regression and computer algebra.

• Apply mathematical and numerical modelling tools to develop nonlinear system identification and modelling algorithms with an emphasis on exact solutions.
• Develop optimisation and search methods based on symbolic regression tools interfaced with computer algebra systems.
• Experimentally validate the resulting novel methodologies on engineering use cases, primarily aerospace structures.
• Collaborate with team members both locally and externally, including short visits to partners.
• Produce high-quality journal and conference papers, surveys, graphs and written analysis.
• Manage workload to achieve project goals and deadlines with scientific rigor and integrity.
• Lead idea development and support colleagues in the research process.
• Participate in project meetings, conferences and outreach events.
• Contribute to project planning, resource allocation, milestones and overall objectives.
• Further develop research, leadership, communication and transferable skills.
• Adhere to the principles of the "Sheffield Academic" and make ethical decisions aligned with the university's sustainability strategy.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the post.

• Good honours degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or equivalent experience.
• PhD or imminent completion in a relevant discipline.
• Knowledge and experience in nonlinear identification, digital twins and structural dynamics.
• Expertise in symbolic regression and computer algebra.
• Experience in coding for engineering problems (Matlab, Python, FORTRAN, C/C++).
• Strong communication skills; experience presenting research and publishing papers.
• Ability to work effectively within a research group and with external partners.
• Analytical problem-solving capability to produce publishable results.
• Organised and able to meet deadlines.
• Experience in experimental design and testing of structures under various environmental conditions.
• Desirable: adaptability to new circumstances.

Annual salary: £38,784 - £47,389.

Full-time, Hybrid working.

Contract:

Fixed-term 36 months.

• Annual leave with purchase option.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Flexible working options.
• Discounts on retail, travel and meals.
• Staff networks and support.
• Recognition awards.
• Learning and mentoring schemes.
• Family-friendly policies.

Principal Investigator:
Professor Keith Worden –