Research Fellow or Project Engineer

-; Coventry; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research-intensive university is seeking a Research Fellow / Project Engineer to conduct research on electric machine insulation systems for aerospace applications. This role includes designing and executing high-voltage tests, developing the reliability and safety of next-generation electric propulsion systems. Applicants should ideally hold a PhD or be near submission. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from £35,608 to £46,049 per annum, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits.

Benefits

Comprehensive pension scheme

30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure

Generous parental/adoption leave policy

Onsite childcare facilities

Excellent learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience with electric machine insulation systems.
• Understanding of ageing and failure mechanisms.
• Ability to design and execute high-voltage tests.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research on insulation systems for aerospace.
• Develop reliability and safety of electric propulsion systems.

Skills

Pragmatic problem-solving

Research and development

High-voltage testing

Education

PhD or near submission of PhD

Job description

Research Fellow / Project Engineer

Location: University of Warwick Campus, Coventry

Department: WMG

Position Type: Fixed Term

Duration: Fixed-term contract until 31 December 2027

Salary: £35,608 to £46,049 per annum

About the Role:

To conduct in‑depth research and development efforts in electric machine insulation systems for aerospace applications. The role involves designing and executing high‑voltage tests to evaluate insulation performance under environmental conditions, understanding ageing and failure mechanisms with the aim to develop the reliability and safety of next‑generation electric propulsion systems.

About You:

Candidate with a pragmatic approach to solving insulation system challenges for the next‑generation electrical machines.

PhD Status:

If you are near submission of your PhD, or have not yet had it conferred, any offers of employment will be made at Research Assistant level, at the highest spinal point of pay grade 5 (£34,610 per annum). Upon receipt of evidence confirming the successful award of your PhD, you will be promoted to Research Fellow, at the lowest spinal point of grade 6 (£35,608 per annum).

About the Department:

The WMG PEMD team is working on collaborative projects with automotive, aerospace and energy‑generation manufacturers. Projects with tier‑1s and OEMs aim to enable the electrification of aerospace, automotive and marine transport. Our Driving the Electric Revolution—Industrialisation Centre "Winding Centre of Excellence" supports the electrified drivetrain development.

About the University:

University of Warwick is a world‑leading research‑intensive university founded in 1965, ranked 106th in the world and 8th in the UK. 92% of research is rated world‑leading or internationally excellent. The university holds the Athena SWAN Silver Award and the Institutional Silver Award.

How to Apply

Closing deadline: Thursday 12 February 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time). Please apply via the official careers portal. Include a CV and a cover letter.

Your CV should include:

• Your education and employment history.
• Any other relevant experience (e.g., volunteering, extracurricular).

Your cover letter should explain:

• Your motivations for applying.
• Examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria detailed in the job description (PDF attached).

All essential criteria must be met by candidates invited to interview.

Interview Date: 20 February 2026

Start Date: As soon as possible

What we Offer

Benefits include:

• Comprehensive pension scheme.
• 30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
• Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
• Onsite childcare facilities.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

We offer flexible working arrangements and support work/life balance.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Warwick is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive and respectful community where everyone can thrive. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and actively encourage underrepresented groups.

Safeguarding & DBS

• Roles with regulated activity are subject to a DBS check.
• Any barred individuals cannot undertake work with the barred group.
• All staff, volunteers and partners must share the safeguarding commitment.

Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders

The University will not discriminate against applicants who make a disclosure relating to a conviction.

Disclosures at application stage are visible only to the DBS team.

Right to Work

If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK or need sponsorship, follow relevant guidance for the Skilled Worker visa.

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