Research Assistant - Marie Curie

Research Assistant - Marie Curie, Innovations in heat exchangers, materials and manufacturing methods – 16997

Department of Engineering/College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences

Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus

£50,508 per annum inclusive of London Allowance - without any pension contributions

Full-time

Fixed-term for 36 months

We are seeking to appoint a research assistant who will undertake research towards a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering. The main objectives are to develop generalised modelling tools for industrial high temperature heat pumps heat exchangers that will consider modern manufacturing methods. This will include the development of multilayer coatings including bonding methods that are able to withstand corrosive and erosive environments.

The models will be validated using experimental tests conducted by the candidate.

Candidates must hold at least a first degree or a Master-degree in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant subject.

This project is part of a Marie Sklodowska Curie Actions (MSCA) ITN aiming to train 15 PhD candidates within the newly funded project:
Industrial Decarbonisation Using Innovative Low-Grade Heat Upgrade (Heat Minds). The overall aim of the work programme is to undertake cutting-edge multidisciplinary research and development to make a step change in the understanding of Industrial High Temperature Heat Pump technology. The successful candidate will start on 1 April 2027.

Candidates must not have worked or studied in the UK in the last three years.

• Completed application form
• CV Europass ( https://europa.eu/europass/en/create-europass-cv )
• Analysis of the challenges associated with industrial heat decarbonisation and the potential of innovative IHTHPs to address these challenges, including the needs for technology development (max 3 pages)
• Short video (less than 2min): why I should be selected for the position. The candidates should address some of the following questions:
  • D1:
    Why did you decide to apply?
  • D2:
    What do you expect/want to gain from an MSCA programme?
  • D3:
    How do you think you can add value to an MSCA programme?
  • D4:
    Your strengths and weaknesses.
  • D5:
    Describe a time when you had to deliver a challenging project. What was your role and what was the outcome?
  • D6:
    Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
  • D7:
    Why should you be selected for the position?

Interviews will take place in the first two weeks of November 2026.

30 October 2026

If you have any technical issues please contact us at:

Brunel University London wishes to promote an inclusive and diverse workforce and create a culture that values the contribution of all backgrounds and communities. All employees will be recruited, selected and appointed in line with our equality and diversity policy.