Research Associate in Digital Hydraulic Fluid Power

We are seeking a Research Associate to take a key role in the design and development of digital hydraulic fluid power valves and technologies. 

Hydraulic fluid power has several advantages, however, the current hydraulic control method involves using valves to throttle flow, reduce pressure, and control the speed and force of the load. Although this approach is simple to operate, it is highly energy inefficient, and the average power efficiency of fluid power systems is only about 21%. This project aims to design, develop and prototype next-generation digital hydraulic valves and technologies to significantly improve hydraulic energy efficiency, fuel consumption, and CO2 emissions to decarbonise off-road vehicles for a sustainable and greener future.

You will be responsible for delivering high quality research on the topic, including:

• Design and modelling of digital hydraulic fluid power valves.
• Manufacturing and prototyping digital valves using advanced manufacturing (e.g. additive manufacturing) technology.
• Valve testing, validation and evaluation.
• Digital fluid power system integration and experimental validation.
• Stimulating and creating pathways to impact to disseminate the research outcomes and promote exploitation of the new technology. 

You will be responsible for planning and performing your own research activities and will be expected to take an active role in supporting PhD and undergraduate research students within the laboratory. 

This position is offered on a full-time basis, fixed term for 3 years from 1st May 2025. 

For an informal discussion about this role please contact Dr Min Pan at [email protected]  or Dr James Roscow at [email protected]  however please ensure you submit your application through our website.

About you:

Our ideal candidate will:

• hold a PhD degree in a subject area of direct relevance for the project
• have previous experience in one or more of the following: modelling, design or prototyping of fluid power components and systems
• have excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills
• be self-motivated
• have excellent interpersonal and communication skills to work with a range of audiences

You will have the attributes to develop into a kind and culturally aware leader who fosters an environment where every individual is valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity. You will proactively seek out diverse perspectives, recognizing the richness and creativity this brings to decision-making and problem-solving. You will remain optimistic in the face of challenges, seeing them as opportunities for growth and innovation.

You will understand that change is inevitable and necessary, actively encouraging those around you to adapt and evolve. By promoting a culture of openness and inclusivity, coupled with a willingness to listen as well as a readiness to embrace change, you will contribute profoundly to a dynamic and empowered team that can thrive in today’s rapidly changing world.

About us:

We are one of the leading Mechanical Engineering Departments in the UK and provide a progressive academic environment. You will benefit from the supportive, collaborative and well-organised Department and Faculty system at the University. 

What we can offer you:

Find out more about our benefits .

We consider ourselves to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award . We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students, so we encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on our teams. 

We are very proud to be an autism friendly university and are an accredited Disability Confident Leader; committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff .

Find out from our staff what makes the University of Bath a great place to work. Follow us @UniofBath and @UniofBathJobs on Twitter for more information.

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Further details:

We are constantly seeking to reduce the unconscious bias that enters any assessment process, with the goal of creating an inclusive and equal assessment process. To support this, personal details will be removed from application forms at the initial shortlisting stage.