Researcher in Micromobility Visualisation and Simulation (0271-25) - Derby, DE22 1GB

University of Derby; Long Eaton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking a Researcher for an interdisciplinary project with Toyota Manufacturing UK. You will develop immersive XR technologies to create simulations for a lightweight Battery Electric Vehicle project, analyze user feedback, and contribute to real-world testing. Candidates should possess a PhD or equivalent experience in immersive technologies, along with a strong research background and excellent collaboration skills. The position offers generous annual leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous annual leave of 47 days

Teacher’s Pension Scheme

Holistic wellbeing benefits

Staff discounts at retailers

Discounted onsite gym membership

Cycle-to-Work scheme

Flexible working environment

Qualifications

• PhD (or final year PhD) in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience.
• Strong research background with publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience in developing immersive XR applications, preferably in automotive.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop immersive XR technologies for simulations.
• Gather and analyse user experiences to inform interactions.
• Support student supervision and project planning.

Skills

Immersive XR technologies

User engagement

Collaboration

Research analysis

Education

PhD in relevant discipline

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

About the College/Department

The University of Derby’s College of Science and Engineering houses the STEM disciplines essential to the UK’s Industrial Strategy. It brings together scientific expertise, technological innovation, and creative practice across computing, AI, data science, engineering, environmental sciences, built environments, and psychology. The College is equipped with state‑of‑the‑art facilities, strong employer partnerships, and a commitment to sustainability.

Role Overview

As a Researcher you will be part of an interdisciplinary project in partnership with Toyota Manufacturing UK (TMUK). The project focuses on developing a lightweight Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) for the L6e category, featuring a solar roof, advanced connectivity, and sustainable materials. You will apply immersive XR technologies to create simulated environments, gather user feedback, and support real‑world testing and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop and apply immersive XR technologies to create simulated environments.
• Gather and analyse user experiences to inform real‑world interactions.
• Support student supervision and contribute to project planning and reporting.
• Present research findings at conferences and contribute to publications.
• Collaborate closely with academic colleagues, engineers, and industry partners.
• Contribute to stakeholder engagement, demonstrations and publications.

Qualifications

• PhD (or final year PhD) in a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience in immersive technologies, simulation and user engagement.
• Strong research background with publications in peer‑reviewed journals and conference presentations.
• Experience in developing immersive XR applications, preferably within automotive or analogous environments.
• Excellent collaboration skills and the ability to build effective relationships internally and externally.
• Creative application of relevant models and techniques to complex challenges.

Project Context

The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) funds a £30.3 million project through the UK Government’s DRIVE35 Collaborate programme. The University's role includes real‑world testing, analysis, and leveraging expertise in micromobility user behaviour and solar energy viability. The project aligns with the University of Derby’s Derby Urban Sustainable Transport Transition (DUST) initiative, aiming to enhance urban mobility and sustainability.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave entitlement of 47 days (inclusive of bank holidays and concessionary days, pro‑rata).
• Teacher’s Pension Scheme.
• Holistic wellbeing benefits and support, including family‑friendly policies, generous sick pay, and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme.
• Staff discounts at high‑street retailers.
• Discounted onsite gym membership.
• Cycle‑to‑Work scheme.
• Flexible working environment.
• Commitment to personal and professional development.

Visa & Sponsorship

• The offered salary is below the standard market rate and the minimum threshold for the Skilled Worker route (£41,700 per annum, as of 22 July 2025).
• Applicants may be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa if they meet one of the following criteria:
  • Your job is on the Immigration Skills List.
  • You are under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training.
  • You hold a PhD‑level qualification relevant to your role.
  • You hold a post‑doctoral position in science or higher education.
• Applicants must also meet the English Language requirement.
• The University will assess individual eligibility for sponsorship during the shortlisting stage.

Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Professor Chris Bussell, Pro Vice Chancellor / Dean, College of Science and Engineering.
For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team.