Postdoctoral Research Associate in Hybrid Bioenergy and Thermal Systems

Consortium of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Voluntary and Community Organisations Limited; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 41,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Birmingham is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance their BioSolar Project. The role involves designing and optimizing a hybrid energy system, requiring a PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related fields. Candidates must have proven experience in renewable energy and strong analytical and communication skills. This is a fixed-term position offering a salary between £41,064 and £46,049 per annum. The university promotes equality and diversity, welcoming applications from all community sections.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Qualifications

• Proven research experience in hybrid or renewable-energy systems required.
• Experience in experimental design and laboratory setup is essential.
• High-quality publications and interdisciplinary collaboration expected.

Responsibilities

• Design, test, and optimise hybrid energy–food–waste system.
• Lead laboratory-scale R&D on PCM-integrated heat exchangers.
• Develop modelling tools for thermal and system-level optimisation.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Energy Systems

PhD in Thermal Sciences

Tools

COMSOL

ANSYS

MATLAB

TRNSYS

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Hybrid Bioenergy and Thermal Systems

Location: Aston University Main Campus

Job Type: Fixed Term

Pay: £41,064 to £46,049 per annum

Highlighted points for this job

Postdoctoral Research Associate role at Aston University

Involves experimental, modelling, and system-integration research for the BioSolar Project

Requires a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Systems, or related discipline

Responsibilities include designing, testing, and optimising a modular hybrid energy–food–waste system

Applicants must have experience in hybrid or renewable-energy systems and thermal energy storage

Aston University is seeking an outstanding Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to the experimental, modelling, and system-integration research underpinning the BioSolar Project. Working within the Department of Mechatronics and Biomedical Engineering, the postholder will play a central role in designing, testing, and optimising a modular hybrid energy–food–waste system combining photovoltaic–thermal (PVT) panels, anaerobic digestion, biogas-fuelled micro-CHP, phase-change material (PCM) thermal storage, and IoT-enabled monitoring and control.

The successful candidate will lead laboratory-scale R&D on PCM-integrated heat exchangers, develop modelling tools (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS, TRNSYS, MATLAB) for thermal and system-level optimisation, and support prototype fabrication, instrumentation, and field deployment activities in collaboration with UK and Ukrainian partners. The role also involves data analysis, performance assessment, and the preparation of technical reports, journal papers, and dissemination materials.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Energy Systems, Thermal Sciences, or a closely related discipline, and have proven research experience in hybrid or renewable-energy systems, thermal energy storage, or bioenergy technologies. Experience in experimental design, laboratory setup, data acquisition, and modelling of heat-transfer or energy-conversion systems is essential, alongside evidence of high-quality publications and interdisciplinary collaboration. Strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and excellent communication skills are also required.

Desirable attributes include experience with PCM systems, bioenergy, IoT-based control, model predictive control, digital-twin development, prototype commissioning, or involvement in Innovate UK/UKRI/Horizon Europe projects. Eligibility for or progression toward Chartered Engineer status is also advantageous.

Anonymous shortlisting will be carried out for this role as part of Aston University’s commitment to equality and diversity and ensuring a fair and consistent approach to recruitment. Personal details that are included on application forms, including the candidate’s name and address will not be disclosed to the shortlisting panel. CVs will not be considered as part of the shortlisting process.

The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
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We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

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