Research Associate: Climate-Resilient Geotechnical Modelling

Loughborough University; Sharnford; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Loughborough University's School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering seeks a Research Associate in Geotechnical Numerical Modelling for Climate-Resilient Earthworks. The role partners with Professor Alister Smith, leading a team of doctoral researchers on climate-resilient earthworks, including model development, calibration and dissemination of results.

The successful candidate will contribute to simulations of hydraulic and mechanical soil behaviour, coordinate a research group and

Qualifications

• Experience in performing simulations of hydraulic and mechanical behaviour using geotechnical numerical analysis packages.
• Experience developing numerical models for geotechnical problems and calibrating/validating them using lab and field measurements.
• Strong understanding of unsaturated soil mechanics and environmental loading impacts on geotechnical assets.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent self-management and organisational skills with a proactive approach to work.
• Willingness to work as part of a team with collaborative research experience.
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with industry partners and stakeholders.
• Proven ability to write high-quality journal papers and deliver presentations to academic and industry audiences.

Responsibilities

• Develop, calibrate and validate advanced numerical modelling frameworks.
• Conduct forensic analyses of historical earthwork failures.
• Assess earthwork performance under extreme weather and future climate scenarios.
• Evaluate asset intervention strategies.
• Coordinate the research group and disseminate research outcomes via publications, presentations and industry engagement.

Skills

Geotechnical modelling

Numerical analysis

Calibration & validation

Soil mechanics

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Tools

Geotechnical software

Job description

Loughborough University's School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering seeks a Research Associate in Geotechnical Numerical Modelling for Climate-Resilient Earthworks. The role partners with Professor Alister Smith, leading a team of doctoral researchers on climate-resilient earthworks, including model development, calibration and dissemination of results.

The successful candidate will contribute to simulations of hydraulic and mechanical soil behaviour, coordinate a research group and