Research Associate in Nonlinear System Identification and Modelling

Overview

The Dynamics Research Group in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering at the University of Sheffield is seeking a Research Associate with excellent research skills to work on the EPSRC‑funded New Ways Forward in Nonlinear Structural Dynamics. The project focuses on creating new technology for nonlinear system identification and modelling, emphasizing symbolic computing and exact methods.

• 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, harmonising with database methods within the team.
• Experimentally validate the resulting novel methodologies for aerospace structures in laboratory settings.
• Collaborate proactively with team members in Sheffield and externally to maximise research impact, including short visits to partners.
• Produce high‑quality written journal and conference papers, including literature surveys, graphs, mathematical analysis, and written text.
• Manage workload to meet project goals and deadlines, selecting appropriate scientific approaches and maintaining scientific rigor and integrity.
• Take a leading role in developing new ideas and support others in the idea generation process.
• Participate in and contribute to all project events, including presentations at project meetings and wider conferences.
• Plan specific research aspects and contribute to consortium‑level project planning, addressing resources, deadlines, milestones, and overall aims.
• Further develop research, leadership, communication, and other transferable skills.
• Contribute actively to the principles of the Sheffield Academic community, including excellence in teaching and research.
• Make ethical decisions and embed the University sustainability strategy in work activities where possible.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all staff. Even if your past experience does not match perfectly, you are encouraged to apply.

• Essential: A good honours degree in an engineering discipline, computer science or mathematics (or equivalent experience).
• Essential: A PhD or close to completion in computer science, engineering, mathematics or a relevant discipline.
• Essential:
  Knowledge and experience relevant to nonlinear identification, digital twins and associated structural dynamics.
• Essential:
  Experience/expertise in symbolic regression and computer algebra.
• Essential:
  Code‑writing experience in Matlab, Python, FORTRAN, C/C++ or equivalent for engineering problems.
• Essential:
  Effective communication skills, written and verbal; experience delivering research presentations and papers.
• Essential:
  Ability to work within a research group and collaborate with external partners.
• Essential:
  Problem‑solving ability and capacity to produce results for publication.
• Essential:
  Organisation skills to manage research work and meet deadlines.
• Desirable:
  Expertise in experimental design and testing of structures across environmental conditions.
• Desirable:
  Ability to adapt skills to new circumstances.

Grade: 7
Salary: £38,784 - £47,389
Work arrangement:
Full‑time
Duration: 36 months
Line manager:
Principal Investigator
Direct reports: N/A
Contact:
Professor Keith Worden ()

• Minimum of 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays) with the option to purchase more.
• Flexible and hybrid working opportunities.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Wide range of discounts on shopping, eating out and travel.
• Staff networks for social interaction, peer support and personal development.
• Recognition awards for staff achievements.
• Commitment to learning and mentoring schemes integrated with Academic Career Pathways.
• Family‑friendly policies
  • Paid parental leave and other caring emergencies
  • Menopause support in the workplace
  • Paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • And more

We are an equal opportunity employer and a Disability Confident Leader. We encourage applications from all backgrounds.