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Structures Research Group

 

Fri 01 Mar 15:00: Strengthening of Existing Structures Using Novel High Performance Materials

Structures Group seminars - Fri, 16/02/2024 - 17:10
Strengthening of Existing Structures Using Novel High Performance Materials

ABSTRACT

Strengthening of the built infrastructure is an urgent need in earthquake prone areas. Recent earthquakes worldwide have highlighted the deficiency of existing structures, which may be either damaged from previous strong earthquakes or have been designed without code provisions or designed to old obsolete code provisions. In addition, the majority of the existing structures in low- and middle-income countries have been constructed using substandard materials and without application of anti-seismic code provisions and, therefore, the seismic vulnerability in these areas is of high concern. This seminar is focused on the development of innovative strengthening techniques using novel composite and high-performance materials for the improvement of the structural performance and the durability of existing structural elements. Strengthening of existing Reinforced Concrete (RC) and Unreinforced Masonry (URM) elements has been examined using additional Ultra High-Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) and Fibre Reinforced Geopolymer Concrete (FRGC) elements. Extensive experimental and numerical investigation has been conducted and the effectiveness of the examined techniques in terms of structural performance and durability has been highlighted.

SPEAKER BIO

Dr Andreas Lampropoulos is a Principal Lecturer in Civil Engineering at the University of Brighton. He obtained his Diploma (2003), MSc (2005) and PhD (2010) degrees in Civil Engineering (Structural Division) from the University of Patras in Greece. His main research agenda spans the areas of novel construction materials and seismic strengthening/retrofitting of existing structures. His research interests are focused on a wide range of cementitious materials such as ultra-high-performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC), steel fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC) and cementitious materials reinforced with nanoparticles, and he is also working on the development and application of cement-free concretes. He has conducted extensive experimental and numerical work on the development of novel strengthening techniques for the structural upgrade of reinforced concrete (RC) and unreinforced masonry (URM) structures. Dr Lampropoulos currently serves as the Chair of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE) Task Group 1.1 ‘Improving Seismic Resilience of Reinforced Concrete Structures’ and Task Group 5.5 ‘Conservation and Seismic Strengthening/Retrofitting of Existing Unreinforced Masonry Structures’ and he is an active member of various task groups of IABSE and of the International Federation for Structural Concrete (fib). He has had more than 80 works published in international research journals, books and conference proceedings and he is an editorial board member of several international journals in this field. In addition, he is a reviewer for more than 40 international journals, a member of the scientific committee of more than 20 international conferences, and he is an invited reviewer for research proposals for national centres of various countries.

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Fri 15 Mar 15:00: Title to be confirmed

Structures Group seminars - Thu, 15/02/2024 - 16:48
Title to be confirmed

Abstract not available

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Fri 23 Feb 15:00: On the Assessment and Design of Compressed Structures

Structures Group seminars - Thu, 15/02/2024 - 16:45
On the Assessment and Design of Compressed Structures

ABSTRACT :

This lecture addresses critical challenges and innovative solutions in the analysis and design of masonry structures, which constitute a significant portion of global architectural heritage. It will showcase work conducted by myself and various research groups I have collaborated with, focusing on developing new analytical and experimental methods for accurately analyzing such structures. Key topics include Membrane Equilibrium Analysis (MEA) and Linear Arch Static Analysis (LASA), both in its analytical and graphical forms. These static methods provide a fundamental understanding of the equilibrium and stress distributions within masonry structures. Furthermore, the presentation will delve into numerical kinematic methods based on block analysis, which offer insights into the dynamic behavior of these constructions under various load conditions. A significant portion of the lecture will be dedicated to laboratory experiments conducted on scaled models of masonry arches. These experiments aim to elucidate the dynamic behavior of masonry structures, providing a solid empirical basis for the theoretical and computational models presented. Additionally, case studies of notable structures that have been designed and assessed using these methods will be discussed. Among these, the Angelus Novus Vault built in occasion of the 2023 Venice Architectural Biennale and the SOM pavilion for COP28 in Dubai will be highlighted, demonstrating the practical implications of the research and the potential for integrating traditional masonry techniques with modern engineering principles to create resilient, efficient, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing structures.

SPEAKER BIO :

Carlo Olivieri is Assistant Professor of Structural Mechanics at Pegaso University, and was previously Assistant Professor at the University of Salerno. He has collaborated closely with the University of California, Berkeley and Princeton University, and holds an adjunct professorship at the Polytechnical University of Bari. In his Ph.D., he developed Linear Arch Static Analysis, extending classical Thrust Line methods to study curved masonry and concrete spatial structures. His current research focuses on innovative optimization strategies for purely compressive shapes under seismic conditions and the use of low-carbon material blocks for construction. In 2023, he served as structural engineer and site manager for the Angelus Novus vault at the Venice Architectural Biennale, in collaboration with Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM) and Princeton University.

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Research Associate/Senior Research Associate in Fibre-Optic Communication Systems (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Thu, 15/02/2024 - 00:00

We wish to recruit a Research Associate / Senior Research Associates in the Department of Engineering, to work on the EPSRC programme grant "Transforming networks - building an intelligent optical infrastructure (TRANSNET)".

Optical networks underpin the global digital communications infrastructure, and the next-generation digital infrastructure needs more than raw capacity. The aim of TRANSNET is to create an adaptive intelligent optical network that is able to dynamically provide capacity where and when it is needed. It is envisaged that machine learning (ML) will become ubiquitous in future optical networks, at all levels of design and operation, from digital coding, equalisation and impairment mitigation, through to monitoring, fault prediction and identification, and signal restoration, traffic pattern prediction and resource planning.

The post holder will be located in West Cambridge Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties are research into intelligent optical networking through the use of machine learning, liaising with project partners and the mentoring of research students.

Candidates should have a PhD degree in Engineering or a related scientific discipline.

Candidates should have experience of experimental research including applying machine learning algorithms to optical fibre communication systems and knowledge of digital coherent transceivers and associated digital signal processing. They should have a demonstrable ability to communicate with academic and industrial partners, a record of publishing high quality research in high quality journals and at the leading conferences in the field. In addition they should be able to demonstrate the ability to collaborate broadly within the field and support and mentor research students.

Appointment at Senior Research Associate level is dependent on significant experience as a postdoctoral research associate or equivalent, with proven impact from authored publications.

Salary Ranges:
Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263
Senior Research Associate: £45,585 - £57,696

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload (1) your Curriculum Vitae (CV), (2) a Covering Letter in which you should indicate your research interests and explain how your skills would contribute to Research Theme 4 within the TRANSNET project and (3) a research publication list in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact Seb Savory (sjs1001@cam.ac.uk). For queries related to the application process please contact Sue Murkett, by email on sm330@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference NM40024 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Associate in Reactor Physics Modelling and Uncertainty Quantification (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Wed, 14/02/2024 - 00:00

Two positions exist, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on a reactor-physics based assessment of the role of uncertainty in a severe nuclear accident.

The post-holders will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties are: completing a review of relevant existing literature; continually updating knowledge and understanding of relevant modelling and uncertainty quantification methods; development and validation of suitable reactor - and multi-physics models of a 4-loop Westinghouse PWR; application of suitable uncertainty quantification methodologies to enable the impact of uncertainties on the progression of loss of coolant accidents to be assessed; writing research publications and attending conferences; writing reports and participating in meetings with project partners.

Additional responsibilities include: assisting in the supervision of student projects; assisting in the development of student research skills; planning and delivering seminars relating to research area.

The successful applicants will have or be very near to completing a PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a related subject (or have equivalent experience). They will have knowledge and experience of nuclear reactor simulation work - both reactor and multi-physics simulation - and of uncertainty quantification work. They will ideally have experience of using the UK reactor physics codes WIMS and PANTHER and of using the RELAP5 transient and accident analysis code. They will have experience of managing their own workload and a track record of authoring high-quality academic publications.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD (or equivalent experience). Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 December 2024 in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions of a technical nature about this vacancy, please contact Professor Geoff Parks, email: gtp10@cam.ac.uk. If you have any questions about the application process, please contact Jo Boyle, email jb780@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NM40534 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Principal Technician (Electronics) DIAL (Fixed term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Wed, 14/02/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for a Principal Technician (Electronics) to join the Distributed Information and Automation Laboratory (DIAL) at the Institute of Manufacturing (IfM) in Division E. The post is part of a new and large research hub focused on assisting UK manufacturers with exploiting digital technologies to extract intelligence from their manufacturing and supply chain data.

The main responsibilities of the post will include the design and build of low cost digital solutions, implementing them as demonstrations at IfM, visiting companies to help them implement the solutions, and assessing the effectiveness of the solutions.

You should have relevant experience in developing systems with low-cost components and be fully familiar with specialised electronics workshop activity and equipment e.g. micro computing platforms Raspberry Pi, Arduino; and software e.g. python. In addition, an understanding of wireless computing environments is required and experience of having worked in industry or knowledge of the manufacturing industry would be beneficial.

Applicants should be educated to degree level / level 6 vocational qualification or an equivalent level of practical experience. You should be able to design, specify and manufacture, as appropriate, a range of electronic parts/systems to a high degree of precision. Excellent communication and organisational skills are essential, together with the ability to understand and explain diverse technical and design problems to researchers and industry contacts.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2025 in the first instance.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR Office at the Department of Engineering (hr-office@eng.cam.ac.uk, 01223 332615).

Please quote reference NM40535 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant in Ann Dowling Net Zero Impact Fellowship Programme (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Wed, 14/02/2024 - 00:00

Two positions are available, for Research Assistants in the Department of Engineering, to work on the Aviation Impact Accelerator project led by Professor Robert Miller.

The post holder will be located in the Whittle Laboratory, West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

Climate neutral aviation is possible, however, there is no silver bullet and to achieve it a whole system approach is required considering technology, infrastructure, business models, investment and policy. The Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA) is a multidisciplinary international group of academics and practitioners drawing on a broad range of expertise assembled by the University of Cambridge, to develop an interactive, evidence-based tool to allow decision-makers to map, understand, and embark on the pathways towards sustainable flight.

Key responsibilities and duties include: investigating technologies for climate neutral aviation; contributing to academic and accessible outputs including articles and papers; developing system models of aviation; working closely with AIA team and external partners; promoting diverse participation and achievement in Engineering, including supporting the annual CDT Women in Aerospace event; supporting liaison and collaboration external organisations; participating in networks for the exchange of information; planning and managing your own research activity in collaboration with others.

Applicants must have an undergraduate degree or have obtained one by the time the position commences. A master's degree is desirable. We are looking for self-motivated individuals who have recently graduated with interests in a range of areas including economics (around the energy transition and technoeconomic analysis), energy transition policy, aviation engineering (aircraft modelling, fuel production, electrical systems, aviation operations or systems, airport design and operations) and data visualisation. The ideal candidates would be interested in one or more of these areas but would also have an interest in working with people across the multidisciplinary AIA team. We will also be looking for candidates who are self-motivated, have good communication skills and are interested in outreach in the aviation sector.

This fellowship offers the opportunity to explore a career in aviation and academia while getting the chance to interact with stakeholders in industry, government, and civil society. Post-holders can expect support in exploring their next career goals. It has never been more important to bring together diverse experiences and thinking to tackle the global challenge of climate change, and to demonstrate how innovative thinking can help design a better future.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy which are of a technical nature, please contact Beth Barker (beth.barker@cisl.cam.ac.uk). If you have a query related to the application process, please email Juliet Teather: jet63@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NM40530 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Associate in Metallography and Powder Metallurgy (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Mon, 12/02/2024 - 00:00

A position exists, for a Research Associate in the Additive Microstructure Engineering (AddME) Laboratory at the Department of Engineering. The role is to carry out experiments to investigate the recyclability of metal powders used in laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) processes. The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK. The key responsibilities and duties are to characterize powder spreadability during LPBF and the microstructure of metal alloys produced by LPBF using proprietary technologies which have been developed by the AddME Lab group. The equipment required to carry out such experiments is already available in the group, but requires updating since it has not been used since 2021. The role holder is expected to support and maintain the University's national and international reputation for excellence in research and teaching by producing high quality results which will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminate at national and international conferences. They will also assist with writing reports for funding bodies and with grant administration. The role holder is expected to work and interact with other members of the research group and with our industrial partners. They will contribute to seminars and to take part in the research group's broader research activities. The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role include experimental research experience in powder metallurgy processes and microstructure analysis of metals and metal alloys, expertise in machine design and control, and knowledge of laser powder bed fusion processes. The applicant will have obtained or be close to obtaining a PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2025 in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) inclusive of publication list and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact: Elizabeth Howard, Divisional Coordinator on eh301@cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference NM40477 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Associate in Optical Wireless Communication and Signal Processing (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Mon, 12/02/2024 - 00:00

A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on Optical Wireless Communication. Please refer to the HR7 for specific details of the role.

The post holder will be located in West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties are:

-Research and scholarship: develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research; conduct individual and collaborative research projects; write up research work for presentation and publication; assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g. for funding and contractual purposes. -Teaching and learning support: may assist in the supervision of student projects; provide limited supervision/instruction to classes. -Liaison and networking: liaise with colleagues and students; build internal and external contacts and participate in networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future collaboration. -Planning and organising: plan the use of research resources, laboratories and workshops as appropriate.

The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are:

-Holds (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in a relevant specialist subject which includes: Optical wireless communication, Fibre optics, Wireless communication, Communication signal processing, and Photonics. -A significant track record in the field of Optical wireless communication, optical fibre, photonics, or radio communication (i.e. publications, presentations, etc.). -Willingness to contribute to the wider activities of the group by participating in seminars, co-supervising students and taking part in outreach activities. -Highly developed written and oral communication skills in English, excellent presentation, organisational and problem-solving skills. -Self-motivated to achieve research objectives and ability to work effectively and independently as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2025 in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions of a technical nature about this vacancy please contact Dr Iman Tavakkolnia it360@cam.ac.uk or the application process, please contact: Sue Murkett, email sm330@eng.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NM40448 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Associate in Optical Wireless Communication and Signal Processing x 2 (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Mon, 12/02/2024 - 00:00

Two positions exist, for Research Assistants/Associates in the Department of Engineering, to work on Optical Wireless Communication and Signal Processing. Please refer to the HR7 for specific details of the roles.

The post holders will be located in West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties are:

  • Research and scholarship: develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research; conduct individual and collaborative research projects; write up research work for presentation and publication; assist in the preparation of proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g. for funding and contractual purposes.
  • Teaching and learning support: may assist in the supervision of student projects; provide limited supervision/instruction to classes.
  • Liaison and networking: liaise with colleagues and students; build internal and external contacts and participate in networks for the exchange of information and to form relationships for future collaboration.
  • Planning and organising: plan the use of research resources, laboratories and workshops as appropriate.

The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are:

  • Holds (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in a relevant specialist subject which includes: Optical wireless communication, radio frequency (RF) communications, fibre optics, signal processing for communications, and photonics.
  • A significant track record in the field of optical wireless communication, RF communications, optical fibre or photonics (i.e. high-impact journal publications, talks and presentations, etc.).
  • Willingness to contribute to the wider activities of the group by participating in seminars, co-supervising students and taking part in outreach activities.
  • Highly developed written and oral communication skills in English, excellent presentation, organisational and problem-solving skills.
  • Self-motivated to achieve research objectives, capability of creative thinking and ability to work effectively and independently as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges:
Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966
Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2025 in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please upload your CV, a covering letter, one page research plan, a publication list, with a brief description of your contribution to each, in the Upload section of the online application. Additional documents uploaded but not requested will not be considered. Submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

For questions about this vacancy contact Dr Iman Tavakkolnia: it360@cam.ac.uk. For questions on the application process, contact: Sue Murkett, sm330@eng.cam.ac.uk.

Please quote reference NM40458 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Fri 16 Feb 15:00: Smart integral bridge design

Structures Group seminars - Tue, 06/02/2024 - 14:12
Smart integral bridge design

The integral bridge typology has become the first choice for road bridges in the U.K. Without any joints between the bridge deck and abutments, maintenance needs are considerably lower than those for a conventional structure with bearings and expansion joints. However, the use of integral bridges is currently restricted to moderate span lengths and skews due to concern for soil settlement and high earth pressures developing in the backfill soil from thermal movements of the bridge deck. The current design code PD 6694 -1 is considered by many to be overly conservative and is thought to mischaracterise the soil-structure interaction behaviour at play. In this talk, the experimental and field work carried out at Cambridge and the University of Pretoria will be presented, giving insight into where current design could be improved.

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Fri 16 Feb 15:00: Smart integral bridge design

Structures Group seminars - Tue, 06/02/2024 - 14:12
Smart integral bridge design

The integral bridge typology has become the first choice for road bridges in the U.K. Without any joints between the bridge deck and abutments, maintenance needs are considerably lower than those for a conventional structure with bearings and expansion joints. However, the use of integral bridges is currently restricted to moderate span lengths and skews due to concern for soil settlement and high earth pressures developing in the backfill soil from thermal movements of the bridge deck. The current design code PD 6694 -1 is considered by many to be overly conservative and is thought to mischaracterise the soil-structure interaction behaviour at play. In this talk, the experimental and field work carried out at Cambridge and the University of Pretoria will be presented, giving insight into where current design could be improved.

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Research Assistant/Associate in Monte Carlo Radiation Transport and Reactor Analysis (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Tue, 06/02/2024 - 00:00

We are looking for an adventurous researcher to explore Monte Carlo methods for radiation transport (as part of the EPSRC grant, MaThRad). The Cambridge Nuclear Energy group is developing a modern, modifiable radiation transport code, SCONE. We are looking for software developers/researchers with experience of implementing physical models who are keen to understand radiation transport and Monte Carlo code development. The ideal candidate will work within a team to improve SCONE whilst also contributing ideas to expand the application of Monte Carlo methods.

Areas of interest include Monte Carlo applied to reactor multi-physics (static and dynamic), radiation shielding and variance reduction, medical physics and charged particle transport, and algorithmic acceleration techniques. Researchers will have significant freedom in deciding their preferred direction.

This position includes the possibility to undertake an academic or industrial placement with one of our 26 partners. Among others, partners include: MIT, Tsinghua University, EPFL, Jacobs, UCLH, NASA, CEA, EDF Energy, Rolls Royce, CCFE.

The successful candidate must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in Physics or Nuclear Engineering, preferably in the fields of Reactor Physics and Radiation Transport Modelling Methods. They should have a strong mathematical foundation in Monte Carlo methods, proven ability of their application, demonstrated software development skills and an ability to work in a team. Applicants with a related background should provide evidence of their versatility.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions of a technical nature about this position, please contact Prof Eugene Shwageraus (es607@cam.ac.uk) or if they concern the application process, contact Mrs Jo Boyle (jb780@cam.ac.uk)

Please quote reference NM40429 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

EPSRC DTP Studentship - Physics-enhanced velocimetry of Flow-MRI images

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Mon, 05/02/2024 - 00:00

We are looking for a PhD student to work with Prof. Matthew Juniper and Dr. Alexandros Kontogiannis (EPSRC post-doctoral Fellow) on Physics-enhanced velocimetry of Flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Flow-MRI). Flow-MRI simultaneously measures all three velocity components of a flow in three spatial dimensions and one time dimension. This data contains high quality information about the flow but suffers from a low signal-to-noise ratio and the need for time-consuming post-processing. We will enhance the spatial and temporal resolution of Flow-MRI images by combining high quality Flow-MRI data with high quality prior information: that the flow obeys conservation of mass and momentum.

We achieve this by assimilating data directly into a Finite Element computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code using adjoint-accelerated Bayesian Inference. We have proven this concept in steady laminar flows and are searching for a PhD student to work with us to extend this method to periodic and turbulent flows. The expected outcome will be a step-change improvement in Flow-MRI image quality for 3D time-evolving flows. We estimate from our previous work that, by imposing high quality priors, equivalent information can be extracted from around 100 times less data than current methods.

In this project we will collaborate with the School of Clinical Medicine and the Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology Department at Cambridge. We may also collaborate with colleagues at Stanford and Purdue in the USA. This project would suit a student with strong skills in mathematics, numerical analysis, or programming, and an interest in fluid mechanics.

EPSRC DTP studentships are fully-funded (fees and maintenance) for students eligible for Home fees. EU and international students may be considered for a small number of awards at the Home fees rate. Full eligibility criteria can be found via the following link; https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status

Applicants should have strong skills in mathematics, numerical analysis, or programming, and an interest in fluid mechanics. They should have (or expect to obtain by the start date) a degree in an appropriate subject.

To apply for this studentship, please send your two page CV and course transcripts (if available) to Prof. Matthew Juniper to arrive no later than 20th February 2024. Applications may close early if the position is filled before this date.

Please note that any offer of funding will be conditional on securing a place as a PhD student. Candidates will need to apply separately for admission through the University's Graduate Admissions application portal; this can be done before or after applying for this funding opportunity. The applicant portal can be accessed via: www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/egegpdpeg. The final deadline for PhD applications is 16 May 2024, although it is advisable to apply earlier than this.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Research Assistant/Associate in Data Science (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Mon, 05/02/2024 - 00:00

We are seeking for a Research Assistant/Associate in Data Science to join the Centre for Industrial Sustainability within the Department of Engineering, to work on the SEEBEYOND project which aims to motivate food companies improve environmental performance beyond legal compliance. The project is funded by the Environment Agency and Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

The post holder will be based in West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The role offers a distinct opportunity to develop real-world solutions to environmental sustainability with cutting-edge transdisciplinary research. The post holder will provide technical expertise to address the specific project needs through analysing the structure of databases using knowledge graphs and graph algorithms. This will create a suitable framework for constructing a standardised data structure to develop a scalable solution to helping food companies report environmental performance more efficiently and transparently. Please see the HR7 Further Information document for the Key Responsibilities of the role.

The ideal candidate should possess (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Computer Science, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, or a related scientific discipline and demonstrate:

¿ Research/work experience in structuring, analysing and harmonising databases
¿ Knowledge of and experience in graph-based representation models (e.g. graph
representation learning, ontology)
¿ Knowledge and experience in Python, XML and other relevant programming languages
¿ Track-record of high-quality publications
¿ Excellent verbal and written communication skills
¿ Transdisciplinary research experience

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966; Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post will be available for 18 months in the first instance. There is a possibility to extend the contract based on the availability of further funding.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter (including publication list) in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy, please contact Dr Lili Jia (email: lj340@cam.ac.uk) for queries of a technical nature related to the role or Frances Bycroft (email frances.bycroft@admin.cam.ac.uk) for queries about the application process.

Please quote reference NM40409 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

EPSRC iCASE Studentship - Effects of scattering models on LWR core analyses

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Thu, 01/02/2024 - 00:00

A fully paid PhD studentship is offered at the Cambridge University Engineering Department in the area of nuclear reactor core analysis methods development. It is offered under Industrial Cooperative Awards in Science & Technology (iCASE) scheme of the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in collaboration with EDF Energy, the owner and operator of the UK nuclear reactor fleet.

The safety and operational performance of reactor cores relies on simulation tools which are used, with appropriate uncertainties, to set operating limits and determine operational practices on the nuclear fuel and the reactor core. Improved accuracy of tools as well as understanding of their deficiencies can ensure safety margins are appropriately set and allow more flexible and less constrained operation, contributing directly to cost reduction of nuclear power.

Industry standard simulation tools generally use simplified representations of neutron angular scattering. In general, this approach is successful but would be expected to have limitations in areas of strong absorbers or abrupt changes in material properties such as the core-reflector interface. This project seeks to clarify the origins of errors associated with the existing approaches and outline what improvements could be expected from the use of more sophisticated scattering treatment models.

EPSRC iCASE studentships are fully-funded (fees and maintenance) for students eligible for Home fees only. Full eligibility criteria can be found via the following link; https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/fees/what-my-fee-status

The project is expected to involve a blend of physics model and computer code development, as well as comparison of these models with measured plant data to resolve the questions above.

A successful candidate will have physics or engineering undergraduate degree with strong affinity to computational modelling.

Applications should be submitted via the University of Cambridge Applicant Portal https://www.postgraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/egegpdpeg/apply, with Eugene Shwageraus identified as the potential supervisor. Applications may close early if the position is filled before the advertised date.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Research Assistant/Associate in High Speed Fan Stability in Distortion (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Thu, 01/02/2024 - 00:00

A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, to work on High Speed Fan Stability in Distortion.

You would develop key technologies to help the next generation of high-speed axial fans operate in the highly distorted flow conditions seen in embedded engine designs.

Our collaboration with Rolls-Royce has recently identified that the use of casing treatments over just part of the annulus can have a non-linear benefit on fan stability. You would lead the efforts in the soon to be completed National Centre of Propulsion and Power at the Whittle Laboratory to explore this and other problems with high-speed experiments.

The post holder will be located at the Whittle Laboratory, Cambridgeshire, UK.

The key responsibilities and duties are:

  • Experimentally develop improvements to fan stability under a range of distortion conditions
  • Design and commissioning of experimental hardware
  • Developing and running concepts
  • Comparison with CFD or other low-order design methods
  • Determining first order understanding of flow physics
  • Scoping a future high-speed fan testing capability at the National Centre of Propulsion and Power.
  • Writing research publications and attending conferences
  • Writing project reports and attending meetings with project partners

The skills, qualifications and experience required to perform the role are:

  • Knowledge in turbomachinery aerodynamics
  • Expertise in experimental testing in wind tunnels or rotating rigs
  • Experience of managing own work load and working with initiative
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Experience of CFD simulations in turbomachinery
  • Experience of working with industry

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

To collaborate with the Rolls-Royce Defence Business, there may be a requirement for an individual to hold a level of National Security Vetting (NSV). If the requirement is identified, Rolls-Royce will support the application for NSV if the individual does not currently already have this in place. Given this requirement, this role is restricted to UK, EU and Commonwealth nationals only. Additionally, applicants must not hold dual US citizenship.

This is a re-advertisement. Previous applicants need not apply.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions of a technical nature related to the role contact James Taylor at jvt24@cam.ac.uk, or the application process, please contact: Juliet Teather email jet63@eng.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference NM40375 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Teaching Office Administrator (Part Time)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Thu, 01/02/2024 - 00:00

Applications are invited for the post of part-time Teaching Office Administrator based with the Faculty Board and Teaching Office at the Department of Engineering's site in central Cambridge. This office is one of the busiest in the Department and administers all aspects of undergraduate teaching (from registration to issuing course material). The office is responsible for the integration of teaching functions across the Department's divisions, and also those of other faculties with which the Department shares courses.

By providing full administrative support to a Chair of Examiners, you will play an important part in ensuring that the examining of the Department's students is executed to a consistently high standard. You will also support the senior members of the Teaching Office and will have various specific areas of responsibility, which include coordinating the casual worker system for managing demonstrators and others associated with delivery of our teaching programme and playing a role in the monitoring and allowance of student extensions.

The successful candidate will be educated to at least A-level standard, or possess an equivalent level of practical experience. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a team are essential. You will have relevant administrative experience, preferably including committee work, with a good standard of numeracy and IT literacy, which includes experience of working with Microsoft Office.

If you think you are the right candidate for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Benefits of working at Cambridge include:

  • Competitive rates of pay with automatic service-related pay progression and annual cost of living increases;
  • Generous annual leave allowance of 36 days paid leave (pro rata including bank holidays);
  • Flexible and hybrid working opportunities;
  • Generous maternity, adoption and shared parental leave entitlement and other family friendly schemes (e.g. workplace nurseries and salary exchange schemes for childcare);
  • An auto-enrolment pension scheme , with a generous employer contribution;
  • Travel benefits and retail discounts at over 2,000 local and national stores;
  • Schemes to support with relocation / the provision of accommodation

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact the HR Office at the Department of Engineering (hr-office@eng.cam.ac.uk, 01223 332615).

Please quote reference NM40340 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Research Assistant/Associate in Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure (Fixed Term)

Jobs @ Department of Engineering - Wed, 31/01/2024 - 00:00

A position exists, for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, to work on multiple cross-disciplinary projects within the context of sustainable and resilient infrastructure. The successful candidate will join a large dynamic team of researchers working on different challenges.

The key responsibilities are driving, planning and conducting innovative research within own area of expertise as well as broader areas in collaboration with others; consolidating, integrating, producing and disseminating research outputs from multiple projects; developing new and strategic research initiatives and opportunities; develop research training activities, collaborating with academic and industry partners and leading and managing multiple research activities.

The post holder will be located in The Civil Engineering Building, West Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.

Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD in Civil Engineering or a relevant discipline; to have excellent leadership, management, communication, organisational and problem solving skills; to work effectively within a multi-disciplinary team and to engage with industry partners.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Salary Ranges: Research Assistant: £29,605 - £33,966 Research Associate: £36,024 - £44,263.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) including your list of publications, a covering letter and a brief overview of your proposed research in the Upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. Please submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have any questions about this vacancy please contact Professor Abir Al-Tabbaa (aa22@cam.ac.uk) for queries of a technical nature related to the role or please contact Mrs Sue Stocks (sms98@cam.ac.uk ) for queries about the application process.

Please quote reference NM40362 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.