Research Associate (Transport Electrification) - School of Engineering - 106468 - Grade 6

University of Birmingham; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Birmingham is seeking a Research Support Assistant to assist in projects related to transport electrification and energy systems. The role involves data collection, analysis, and contributions to academic publications. Candidates should have a degree in a relevant field and strong analytical and communication skills. The position offers a full-time contract until May 2026 with a salary range of £33,002 to £35,608.

Qualifications

• Experience in applying relevant skills and techniques.
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Collect and analyse research data using various methods.
• Present and draft academic publications.
• Provide guidance to support staff and students.

Skills

Data analysis

Research techniques

Communication

Organization

Education

Degree in electrical engineering or related field

Job description

Position Details

School of Engineering

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £33,002 to £35,608 with potential progression once in post to £39,906. As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 6, salary £33,002.

Part Time (20 hours per week)

Fixed Term contract up to May 2026

Closing date: 7th December 2025

Background

To assist in research (by carrying out data collection or analyses) to create knowledge through providing research support for projects and research groups. The projects are related to the transport electrification, including design, integration, demonstration and optimisation of power systems, traction systems, energy storage systems (battery, supercapacitor), hydrogen systems, etc.

Role Summary

• Work within specified research grants and/or projects
• Operate within area of specialism
• Contribute to publications

Main Duties

• Collect research data; this may be through a variety of research methods, such as scientific experimentation, literature reviews, and research interviews
• Analyse research data as directed
• Present research outputs, including drafting academic publications or parts thereof, for example at seminars and as posters
• Develop or adapt techniques, models and methods
• Provide guidance as required to support staff and any students who may be assisting with research
• Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines
• Carry out administrative tasks related directly to the delivery of the research
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture

Person Specification

• Degree or equivalent in relevant subject area(electrical engineering, energy systems, controls, and transport systems)
• Practical experience of applying the relevant skills and techniques
• Ability to analyse information and communicate effectively
• Ability to access and organise resources successfully
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquiries to Zhongbei Tian, email: [e-mail]

Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.