Research Associate

Cardiff University; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is looking to recruit two Research Associates for a project on offshore HVDC transmission and onshore grid integration. The role involves conducting innovative research and collaborating with international industrial partners. Candidates will develop industry-relevant skills and manage real-world projects. The full-time position offers a salary of £41,064–£46,049 per annum, starting January 2026 for 18 months. Informal inquiries can be directed to Prof. Jun Liang.

Qualifications

• Experience in HVDC transmission and power system services.
• Proficiency in theoretical stability analysis and practical control.
• Ability to work collaboratively in an international research environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on offshore HVDC transmission and grid integration.
• Model and validate AC/DC networks including simulations.
• Develop strategic solutions for renewable power reliability.

Skills

Research in offshore HVDC transmission

Control strategies implementation

AC/DC networks modeling

Collaboration with industrial partners

Simulation and hardware testing

Education

Relevant degree in engineering or related field

Job description

Overview

We are looking to recruit two Research Associates to undertake an exciting project sponsored by UKRI in cooperation with international partners and UK industrial partners. As part of the role you will conduct research in the area of offshore HVDC transmission, onshore grid integration, converter modelling and control, and enhanced power system services, aiming to address the most pressing challenges in offshore wind power integration.

Project Goals and Responsibilities

• Enhance renewable power reliability through innovative solutions such as voltage, frequency support, black‑start, and system restoration.
• Model and validate AC/DC networks, including simulation and hardware tests.
• Conduct theoretical stability analysis and implement practical control strategies.
• Create a tool that optimises and develops a restoration strategy for AC power networks.

Deliverables

• Developed AC/DC simulation models.
• Configured hardware‑in‑the‑loop test rig using existing devices.
• Project reports.

Candidate Opportunities

The candidate will work closely with international partners and UK industrial partners, develop international collaboration networking, and gain industry experience and commercial‑relevant skills. This role offers the chance to manage a challenging, real‑world project and implement strategic development within an innovative company, contributing to the overall research performance of the School and University.

Job Details

Full‑time post (35 hour per week) available from 1 January 2026 for 18 months, fixed‑term until 31 December 2027.

Salary: £41,064–£46,049 per annum (Grade 6). The salary will be at the Grade 6 starting point of £41,064 per annum.

Job ref: 21071BR

Contact Information

Informal enquiries: Prof. Jun Liang, [e-mail].

Further information on working at Cardiff School of Engineering: Karen Baldwin / Chiara Riolo / Bev Jones, [e-mail].

Recruitment and Equality Information

The School of Engineering holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award recognising good employment practice and a commitment to develop the careers of women working in science. Cardiff University is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. For this vacancy we actively encourage women to apply. We will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share opportunities.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application in English.

Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), evaluating applicants on the quality of their research not publication metrics or the identity of the journal.