Advanced/Principal Research Engineer Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs)

National Composites Centre; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research authority in composites in Bristol is seeking a Principal Research Engineer to provide technical guidance and develop innovative solutions in composite materials. You will leverage your expertise in ceramic materials and CMC processing while collaborating with industry partners. The role supports hybrid working and emphasizes personal growth, offering excellent benefits including private medical insurance and generous pension contributions. Apply by January 4, 2026.

Benefits

Hybrid and flexible working

Annual salary reviews

Company paid private medical insurance

Up to 12.5% employer pension contribution

Honorary staff status at the University of Bristol

Qualifications

• Experience with ceramic materials and knowledge of their properties.
• Understanding of various types of CMCs and their manufacturing routes.
• Strong knowledge of challenges in novel applications with CMCs.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical authority and guidance on projects.
• Revise and create roadmaps for innovative technical solutions.
• Create technical documents and publish technical content.
• Develop partnerships with industry partners.
• Represent NCC at relevant technical forums.

Skills

Experience with ceramic materials

Understanding of CMC processing

Knowledge of UHTCMC processing

Background in chemistry

Experience in R&D within industry

Knowledge of novel applications in harsh environments

Education

Degree in chemistry or related field

Job description

Location: Bristol based with Hybrid working – 2 days on site, 3 days home

NCC is a world-leading authority on composite materials research, development, and manufacturing. We work with global leaders across industries such as aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and defence to develop cutting‑edge composite solutions. As part of the UK’s High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the NCC is at the forefront of innovation, helping businesses turn ideas into reality.

What you’ll be doing

As Principal Research Engineer you will be responsible for:

• Providing technical specialist authority and guidance on projects and technical capability both tactically and strategically.
• You’ll be revising, formulating and creating the roadmap for novel and innovative approaches and pioneer technical solutions. Foster innovation across the team, working in an inter‑disciplinary way.
• Create and revise technical documents and advocate for publishing technical content.
• Establish and develop effective partnerships internally and externally with industry partners.
• Represent NCC in relevant technical forums and champion our technical strategy.

What we’re looking for

• Ceramics – You have experience working with ceramic materials and have knowledge of their properties, benefits and limitations.
• Composites – You understand the raw materials, constituent parts and operational characteristics of the various types of CMCs (Ox‑Ox, Si‑C, Si‑C, C‑SiC and C‑C etc). With practice of the considerable efforts involved in the various manufacturing routes.
• Fundamental understanding of UHTCMC processing and thermo‑ablative characterisation.
• You possess an educational background in chemistry with experience of processes such as chemical vapour deposition or infiltration.
• A strong knowledge of the challenges faced in novel applications CMCs and have a passion for delivering new technology.
• Industrial focus – You've put your knowledge to the test or have worked in R&D within industry – proven experience in a practical setting, solving real‑world problems with real‑world solutions.
• Novel sectors – Ideally, you’ll have knowledge and experience of working within a relevant sector where materials must withstand harsh environments (radiation degradation, high temperatures, space environment), forcing engineers to think outside the box in terms of materials selection. Space, Nuclear, Aerospace, Defence etc.

What do we offer in return?

Hybrid and flexible working as standard, annual salary reviews, company paid private medical insurance, up to 12.5% employer pension contribution, great people, honorary staff status at the University of Bristol. With a genuine focus on wellbeing, EDI and learning and development this is a chance to build your career in a thriving R&D facility with a bright future.

We see your future in ours. Apply now.

Closing date for applications Sunday 4th January 2026