Postdoctoral Research Associate - UNISON (Job Number: 25000659)
Department of Engineering
Grade 7: - £38,249 - £45,413 per annum
Fixed Term - Full Time
Contract Duration: Up to 18 months
Contracted Hours per Week: 35
Working Arrangements: Monday to Friday
Closing Date: 23-Jun-2025, 5:59:00 PM
Disclosure and Barring Service Requirement: Not Applicable.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A good first degree in an Engineering related subject.
• A PhD (or be close to submission) in Mechanical/Thermal Engineering or related subject.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
• Demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
• Demonstrable ability to present research papers at international conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
• Experience in designing and operating combustion test rigs; developing analytical engineering models using CONVERGE or other CFD tools; and conducting experimental studies in a mechanical engineering laboratory environment, with a focus on hydrogen-related technology development.

SKILLS

• Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
• Ability to work independently on own initiative and to strict deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

EXPERIENCE

• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
• A track record of presenting research at conferences, symposia, or meetings, commensurate with stage of career.
• Demonstrable ability to develop research proposals and designs in collaboration with other academics.
• Experience of overseeing students with respect to the development of their practical/research skills e.g. acting as a demonstrator; supervising student projects/practicals.
• Experience in working with industry partners and other internal or external parties to maximise the research impact and establish new research collaboration.

SKILLS

• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage independent research.

THE ROLE AND DEPARTMENT

The successful candidate for this Research Associate position will join the Department of Engineering at Durham University. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of novel hydrogen technologies and contribute to the development of sustainable, zero-carbon-emission combustion solutions. We are seeking highly motivated researchers to join a dynamic team working on an EPSRC-funded project, focused on both catalytic ammonia combustion and optimal design of innovative catalytic burners for real-world industry applications.
As a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities, Durham University has a longstanding commitment to excellence in research and research-led teaching. Recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for Engineering research, Durham is ranked 4th in the Complete University Guide, and 6th in both The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 and The Guardian University Guide 2025, and is consistently listed among the world’s top 100 universities.

THE ROLE

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Department of Engineering with a particular emphasis on hydrogen technologies. The EPSRC project, UNISON, seeks to improve the combustion of neat ammonia by exploring fuel additive-enhanced combustion or a catalytic burner that enable ammonia-hydrogen co-combustion. Key goals include optimising combustion efficiency, minimising emissions, and providing industry-ready solutions for ammonia combustion. Working within the EPSRC project, they will focus on clean combustion challenges, analysing and interpreting research findings, supporting the development of innovative combustors, and driving innovative technology solutions. The role also involves contributing to research funding bids, supporting licensing or spin-out activities, and enhancing the broader public understanding and commercial impact of the research.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

To understand and convey material of a specialist or highly technical nature to the team or group of people through presentations and discussions that leads to the presentation of research papers in conferences and publications.

• To prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs/activities to audiences which may include: research sponsors, academic and non-academic audiences.
• To publish high quality outputs, including papers for submission to peer reviewed journals and papers for presentation at conferences and workshops under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder.
• To assist with the development of research objectives and proposals.
• To conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the direction of the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder.
• To work with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and other colleagues in the research group, as appropriate, to identify areas for research, develop new research methods and extend the research portfolio.
• To deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines by discussing with the Principal Investigator or Grant-holder and offering creative or innovative solutions.
• To liaise with research colleagues and make internal and external contacts to develop knowledge and understanding to form relationships for future research collaboration.
• To plan and manage own research activity, research resources in collaboration with others and contribute to the planning of research projects.
• To deliver training in research techniques/approaches to peers, visitors and students as appropriate.
• To be involved in student supervision, as appropriate, and assist with the assessment of the knowledge of students.
• To contribute to fostering a collegial and respectful working environment which is inclusive and welcoming and where everyone is treated fairly with dignity and respect.
• To engage in wider citizenship to support the department and wider discipline.
• To engage in continuing professional development by participation in the undergraduate or postgraduate teaching programmes or by membership of departmental committees, etc. and by attending relevant training and development courses.
• Any other specific responsibilities.