Project Assistant

The National Robotarium; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research center in renewable energy is seeking a Director focused on the design and development of a digital twin model for renewable-driven green hydrogen generation systems. The role involves advanced system modeling, data analytics, and process optimization. Candidates should possess a Master’s in Engineering or Applied Science along with practical experience in system modeling and digital twin development. This position offers an opportunity to work closely with industry partners on cutting-edge hydrogen technologies.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science is essential.
• Practical experience in system modelling or digital twin development is required.
• Strong analytical skills are a must.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct simulation and modeling activities.
• Develop and refine a digital twin framework.
• Validate the digital twin model through real-world datasets.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Competency in simulation and design tools

Effective communication skills

Ability to work independently

Collaboration within a multidisciplinary environment

Education

Master’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

ANSYS/COMSOL

Job description

Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences

Grade: Grade 5 £26,707 - £31,236

Contract Type: Full Time (1.0 FTE), Fixed Term (4 Months)

Detailed Description

This role focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of a digital twin model for on‑site, renewable‑driven green hydrogen generation systems. The successful candidate will contribute to an industry‑sponsored applied research project, involving advanced system modelling, data analytics, and process optimisation to support next‑generation hydrogen technologies.

The digital twin framework will incorporate real time electrolyzer performance and integration with renewable energy inputs (e.g., solar PV), real‑time data interpretation, and techno‑economic evaluation for system deployment and operational decision‑making.

The postholder will work closely with academic and industrial partners as part of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS), Heriot‑Watt University — a global leader in net‑zero energy research and innovation.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct simulation and modelling activities aligned with project milestones under the guidance of the line manager
• Develop and refine a digital twin framework, incorporating systems engineering principles, real operational data, and control system modelling
• Validate the industry partner’s digital twin model and identify performance gaps through real‑world demonstration datasets
• Assess system performance under variable renewable energy conditions and operational settings
• Prepare high‑quality research outputs, including technical reports, presentations, and documentation
• Manage structured datasets, version‑controlled simulation models, and model validation records
• Cooperate with internal and external collaborators to support industrial deployment and knowledge exchange opportunities
• Support laboratory‑based experimentation where digital models will be benchmarked against physical systems
• Provide informal support to postgraduate and undergraduate students contributing to project activities
• Contribute to the preparation of future grant proposals and industrial collaboration opportunities
• Participate in outreach and knowledge‑transfer activities such as demonstrations, school engagement, and public talks

We welcome applications from creative and motivated master’s degree candidates and early‑career researchers who demonstrate strong initiative and a collaborative mindset.

Education, Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science (e.g., Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Electronics & Communication, Energy, Renewables, Physics)
• Practical experience in system modelling, digital twin development, or mathematical optimisation
• Competency in simulation and design tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS/COMSOL, CAD‑based environments)
• Strong analytical skills and understanding of hydrogen or electrochemical energy systems
• Ability to work independently, manage tasks, and meet defined deadlines
• Effective communication skills demonstrated through scientific writing or technical reporting
• Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary research environment

Desirable

• Demonstrated experience in electrolyser operation, control systems modelling, and integration with renewable energy systems
• Familiarity with Data Analog Converter (DAC) platforms, including data acquisition and seamless transfer of electrolysis cell performance data to digital dashboards
• Hands‑on expertise in developing prototype‑scale digital twin tools for system monitoring, optimisation, and predictive maintenance
• Good understanding of engineering system deployment, including industrial design constraints, compliance requirements, and operational safety considerations
• Proven track record of contributing to industry‑linked and innovation‑driven research projects, delivering outputs aligned with commercial or societal impact goals

How to Apply

Submit your applications by midnight on 24th January 2026 via the Heriot‑Watt online recruitment system with the following files:

• A cover letter outlining motivation and suitability for the role
• A full CV detailing qualifications and experience

About Heriot‑Watt University

At Heriot‑Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real‑world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.

Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well‑being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.