Research Associate in Multiphase Flow and Experimental Fluid Mechanics: Developing Responsive G[...]

TN United Kingdom; Scotland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research opportunity awaits a skilled Research Associate to join a dynamic team focused on developing cutting-edge gas-solid vortex technology. This role, embedded within a prestigious university's engineering school, promises hands-on experience in experimental fluid mechanics and collaboration with industry leaders. You'll engage in exciting projects aimed at optimizing energy transition technologies, contributing to sustainable engineering solutions. If you are passionate about research and eager to make a tangible impact in the field, this is the perfect opportunity to advance your career in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering or Physics required.
• PhD or equivalent in relevant fields preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and test gas-solid vortex chamber prototypes.
• Conduct flow visualization experiments and collaborate with scientists.
• Guide technicians and students in research activities.

Skills

Experimental Flow Mechanics

Prototyping and Testing Flow Devices

Flow Visualization (PIV)

Problem-Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Automation

Turbomachinery

Education

Degree in Engineering or Physics

PhD in Mechanical, Industrial, or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Control Systems

Risk Assessments

Job description

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Research Associate in Multiphase Flow and Experimental Fluid Mechanics: Developing Responsive Gas-Solid Vortex Chambers, Midlothian

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Job Reference:

d57c8bef6cb9

Job Views:

4

Posted:

01.05.2025

Expiry Date:

15.06.2025

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Job Description:

Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences

Contract Type: Full Time (1FTE), Fixed Term (24 Months with a possible extension to 36 Months)

Detailed Description

The Research Associate will work on the EPSRC-funded project REVOC - Towards smart manufacturing: Responsive Gas-Solid Vortex Chambers, aimed at developing compact, robust, and modular technology to intensify gas-solid processes underpinning industrial decarbonization.

The appointed candidate will collaborate with a computational PDRA, technicians, UGs students, and the project lead, contributing to the broader research group, xFlow – Complex Flow Technologies. They will play a central role in the project, focusing on the experimental component, interacting with industrial partners and the advisory board. Responsibilities include developing and commissioning new facilities, liaising with mechanical workshops for prototyping vortex chambers, and studying the dynamic behavior of centrifugal gas-solid fluidized beds.

REVOC aims to control externally the structure of a gas-solid vortex (particles swirling in a tornado-like motion) to optimize mixing in a gas-solid reactor, enabling adaptive operation. This technology has potential applications in catalytic reactors for CO2 valorization, energy generation and storage devices, Power-to-X processes, and manufacturing FMCGs. For more details, consult the xFlow vacancy.

About the Environment

Heriot-Watt University is renowned for teaching and research, especially in innovation, business, and industry. The position is based within EPS, which has an established international reputation and close ties with industry and science sectors. The energy transition is a strategic priority, with a new Global Research Institute focused on sustainable engineering.

The candidate will work within the xFlow - Complex Flow Technologies research group, led by Dr. Victor Francia, focusing on advanced process technology for the energy transition using experimental and computational methods. They will gain industry exposure through our advisory board, including academic and R&D leaders from the UK, US, and multinational companies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, test, and characterize gas-solid vortex chamber prototypes.
• Establish experimental facilities in collaboration with technicians and industry partners.
• Design and implement control systems for gas-solid vortex technology.
• Conduct flow visualization experiments (PIV) in gas-solid flows.
• Collaborate with computational scientists to validate models and optimize designs.
• Develop risk assessments, COSHH forms, and SOPs.
• Present research and plans at meetings and advisory boards.
• Disseminate research through publications and conferences.
• Participate in group meetings, workshops, and outreach activities.
• Guide technicians, students, and team members.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

• Degree in Engineering or Physics.
• PhD or equivalent in mechanical, industrial, or chemical engineering or related fields.
• Expertise in experimental flow mechanics.
• Experience in prototyping and testing flow devices.
• Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and can-do attitude.
• Experience in flow visualization or PIV.
• Experience in automation and turbomachinery.

Post-Project Career Outcomes

• Proven innovator in energy transition technologies.
• Skilled manager with R&D and manufacturing experience.
• Transferable skills in design, prototyping, control, PIV, and data analysis.
• Industry interaction and dissemination experience.
• Prepared for senior R&D roles or academic careers.