Ultrasonic Inspection R&D Engineer: (KTP Associate) (849843)

Economics Network; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Strathclyde, in partnership with National Oilwell Varco (NOV), seeks a Research Engineer in Advanced Ultrasonic Inspection Technologies to develop PAUT methods for large-scale, safety-critical components.

The role offers joint work with NOV and Strathclyde researchers, including modelling, experimental validation, and bespoke calibration design for complex geometries, within a 21-month fixed-term post.

Qualifications

• Experience in ultrasonic testing, wave propagation or non-destructive evaluation.
• Background in engineering or applied physics.
• Ability to work on industrial research projects with academic and industrial partners.

Responsibilities

• Develop PAUT methodologies for large-scale components.
• Model ultrasonic wave propagation and validate experimentally.
• Design calibration approaches for complex geometries.
• Collaborate with NOV engineers and Strathclyde researchers.

Skills

Ultrasonic testing

Wave propagation

Non-destructive evaluation

Modelling

Experimental validation

Calibration methods

PAUT (Phased Array Ultrasonic Testing)

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

Faculty of Engineering

FTE:1 (37 hours/week)

Term:Fixed Term (21 months)

The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, in partnership with National Oilwell Varco (NOV), is seeking to appoint a Research Engineer in Advanced Ultrasonic Inspection Technologies to develop innovative phased array ultrasonic inspection methods for large-scale, safety-critical industrial components.

This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer or applied physicist with experience in ultrasonic testing, wave propagation, or non-destructive evaluation to work on technically challenging real-world problems with direct industrial impact.

The role forms part of a prestigious Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the University of Strathclyde and NOV, combining academic research with industrial implementation. The successful candidate will work closely with university researchers and NOV engineering teams to develop advanced phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) methodologies, including modelling, experimental validation, and the design of bespoke calibration approaches for complex geometries.

NOV is a global provider of equipment and technologies supporting the energy sector, operating in more than 500 locations worldwide. The Forfar-based NOV team is responsible for advanced non-destructive evaluation (NDE) technologies used to inspect critical drilling equipment deployed globally.

The project will address fundamental challenges associated with ultrasonic inspection of large-scale, geometrically complex components where conventional calibration approaches are impractical. The successful candidate will investigate ultrasonic wave propagation behaviour, inspection sensitivity, and calibration methodologies using a combination of simulation, experimental validation, and industrial testing.

The overall objective of the project is to develop robust, standardised phased array ultrasonic inspection methodologies for complex NOV components while embedding long-term inspection development capability within the company.

The successful candidate will benefit from:

• A unique opportunity to apply advanced research to real industrial challenges
• Collaboration with leading academic and industrial experts
• Access to advanced experimental and industrial inspection facilities
• A £5,000 personal development and training budget
• Formal KTP management and leadership training
• The opportunity to publish technical work and contribute to knowledge dissemination
• Potential for long-term career progression within NOV
• Exposure to globally significant engineering applications within the energy sector

The project is part of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme that aims to help businesses to innovate and grow by working with UK universities. Successful Knowledge Transfer Partnership projects are funded by UK Research and Innovation through Innovate UK and are part of the government’s Industrial Strategy. To find out how KTP works and the vital role you will play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position please visit: www.ktpws.org.uk

Interviews for this post will be on a date to be confirmed.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Dr Ehsan Mohseni, ([e-mail]).

Up to £44,000 per annum