Research Assistant

School/Department:
Mechanical, Aerospace & Civil Engineering

Work Arrangement:
Part Time (Hybrid)

Contract Type:
Fixed-term

Salary per annum (£): 32,080.

Closing Date: 16/07/2026

The project is a collaboration with Rolls‑Royce on investigation of the coking process and the produced deposit layer characteristics in the jet engine fuel system. This requires metallurgical analysis and mechanical assessment of the deposit layer formation in various materials and understanding the effect of surface conditions on deposit formation.

• Work with industrial and academic partners and communicate results.
• Conduct experiments as agreed based on the project plan.
• Analyse results and present findings in weekly meetings.
• Prepare draft publications with other partners.
• Carry out other duties as per the post.

• Master of Science degree (or equivalent relevant experience).
• Experience in metallurgical preparation.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, confidence in presenting technical information to academic and industrial audiences, and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.
• Good knowledge of material properties and elemental analysis.
• Experience in using optical and electron microscopy.
• Highly organized, self‑motivated, with strong problem‑solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to analyze experimental data, prepare technical reports, present findings, and contribute to scientific publications.
• Good understanding of metallic manufacturing processes, such as machining or tube drawing, and their influence on surface integrity and material behaviour.

• A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes.
• A range of generous family‑friendly policies:
  • Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies.
  • Access to menopause support in the workplace.
  • Paid time off and support for fertility treatment.
  • and more.

Grade: 6

Duration: 1 year

Line manager:
Prof Hassan Ghadbeigi

Contact:
Prof Hassan Ghadbeigi (Chair of Structural Integrity in Manufacturing) –

The University of Sheffield
Western Bank
Sheffield
S10 2TN