Research Associate In Geotechnical Modelling For Climate-Resilient Earthworks

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

Job description

School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering

Full time, Fixed-term for 24 months with a possible extension.

About the role:

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate in ‘Geotechnical Numerical Modelling for Climate-Resilient Earthworks’ to work closely with Professor Alister Smith in the School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering at Loughborough University. Professor Smith holds a Network Rail and Arup / Royal Academy of Engineering Research Chair and leads a research group comprising nine doctoral researchers focused on climate-resilient earthworks.

The Research Associate will support the delivery of this major research programme through the development, calibration and validation of advanced numerical modelling frameworks, forensic analyses of historical earthwork failures, assessment of earthwork performance under extreme weather and future climate scenarios, and evaluation of asset intervention strategies. The postholder will also help coordinate the research group and play a leading role in disseminating and translating research outcomes through publications, presentations, stakeholder engagement and collaboration with industry partners.

About the School:

The School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering (ABCE) was ranked 2nd (by both GPA and Power) amongst all UK institutions submitting to the Architecture, Built Environment and Planning Unit in REF2021.

ABCE's research environment, which supports colleagues to develop and deliver cutting‑edge research and innovation, received the highest possible score, with 100% rated world‑leading (4*). ABCE is an integrated Built Environment School delivering degree courses in Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Architecture, Construction Engineering Management, Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, and Urban Planning.

Our faculty comprises around 80 academics spanning these disciplines. We strive for academic excellence and provide a research environment where everyone can thrive. Further information is available at:

About you:

• Experience in performing simulations of hydraulic and mechanical behaviour using geotechnical numerical analysis packages.
• Experience developing numerical models for geotechnical problems and calibrating and validating them using laboratory and field measurements.
• Strong understanding of unsaturated soil mechanics, constitutive models for soil behaviour, and the impacts of environmental loading on geotechnical assets.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent self‑management and organisational skills, together with a committed and proactive approach to work.
• Willingness to work as part of a team, with evidence of effective performance in collaborative research environments.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong collaborative relationships with industry partners and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to write high-quality journal papers and deliver presentations to academic and industry audiences.

Why should you apply?

This post offers an opportunity to apply and further develop your technical skills in geotechnical engineering, work alongside a cohort of doctoral researchers, collaborate with academics and industry partners, and contribute within a collaborative and supportive environment. The role offers a wide range of opportunities for technical, professional and career development.