Postdoctoral Research Associate - SEASTARS

European Commission; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a fixed-term position focusing on digital twin modelling and AI for maritime decarbonisation. The role involves multidisciplinary modelling and collaboration across various fields, supporting enhanced sustainability and emission-reduction efforts in the marine industry.

Qualifications

• Good first degree in an engineering-related subject.
• Experience in high-quality academic research and publishing.
• Strong publication record and research project management.

Responsibilities

• Work on digital twin modelling and AI-driven decision-making tools.
• Engage in programming, data analysis, and innovative solution development.
• Support research funding proposals and increase research impact.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Education

PhD in Marine, Mechanical, Thermal Engineering, or Computer Science

Tools

GT-Power

MATLAB

Python

Siemens Simcenter

Job description

Organisation/Company: DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Research Field: Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Geosciences

Researcher Profile: Recognised Researcher (R2), Established Researcher (R3)

Country: United Kingdom

Application Deadline: 24 Jun 2025 - 00:00 (UTC)

Type of Contract: Other

Job Status: Full-time

Funding: Not funded by an EU programme

Research Infrastructure: No

Offer Description

The Role

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the Department of Engineering, focusing on digital twin modelling for marine engines and propulsion systems involving decarbonisation technologies, and developing AI-driven decision-making tools for low-carbon marine powertrain designs. This role is part of the Horizon Europe project SEASTARS, which aims to enhance maritime sustainability through emission-reduction and efficiency technologies across various shipping routes.

The successful candidate will work on multidisciplinary modelling, AI algorithms, and decision-support tools, with responsibilities including programming, data analysis, and developing innovative solutions for maritime decarbonisation. Additional duties include supporting research funding proposals, engaging in licensing or spin-out activities, and increasing the research's public and commercial impact.

This is a fixed-term position on the Horizon Europe SEASTARS project, starting from 01/07/2025 and ending on 31/12/2027.

Person Specification

Qualifications: A good first degree in an engineering-related subject. A PhD (or near completion) in Marine, Mechanical, Thermal Engineering, or Computer Science.

Experience: Conducting high-quality academic research, publishing in reputable journals, presenting at international conferences, developing engine and fuel cell models in GT-Power, and using MATLAB/Python/Siemens Simcenter for AI-assisted modelling in transportation and energy sectors.

Skills: Ability to work cooperatively in a team, work independently under deadlines, and possess excellent communication skills.

Strong publication record, experience in research proposal development, cryogenic hydrogen storage modelling, collaboration with industry partners, and managing independent research projects.

Contact Information: Prof Dawei Wu, MOL Professor of Maritime Energy Systems