Research Assistant

Brunel University London; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is inviting applications for a Research Assistant (PhD position) to investigate ammonia ignition and combustion in transport engines. This full-time position, funded by an EU MSCA Doctoral Training Grant, offers a salary of £50,000 and is fixed-term for 36 months. Applicants must have a Master's degree in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry. Excellent training opportunities and a hybrid working model are offered.

Benefits

Generous annual leave package

Discretionary University closure days

Excellent training and development opportunities

Great occupational pension scheme

Health-related support

Qualifications

• Must not have resided in the UK for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
• Demonstrable research skills in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Enroll for a PhD degree at Brunel University London.
• Work closely with academic staff and external partners.
• Attend regular project meetings and report on research progress.
• Contribute to the preparation of journal papers and conference proceedings.

Skills

Engineering

Physics

Chemistry

Research skills

Team collaboration

Education

Master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry

Job description

The Centre for Advanced Powertrain and Fuels (CAPF) at Brunel University London invites applications for a Research Assistant / PhD position as part of an EU MSCA Doctoral Training Grant. This position focuses on investigating ammonia ignition and combustion in engines for transport systems.

Position Title: Research Assistant (PhD position) – 16726

College/Department: College of Engineering, Design and Physical Sciences/Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Institute of Energy Future

Location: Brunel University London, Uxbridge Campus

Salary: £50,000 including the family allowance of £5,133.82 per annum (family allowance may be payable dependant on eligibility and evidence)

Hours: Full time

Contract Type: Fixed term for 36 months

Eligibility Criteria

• Must not have resided in the UK for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
• Hold a Master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or Chemistry.
• Applications should also be submitted via the EU MSCA DTorst-HATS project website using the "Manifestation of Interest" form. Please select DC8 as one of your three preferred projects. Apply here.

The successful candidates will:

• Enrol for a PhD degree at Brunel University London.
• Work closely with academic staff, fellow researchers, and externalional partners involved in the project.
• Attend regular project meetings and report on research progress.
• Contribute to the preparation of journal papers and conference proceedings.

We offer a generous annual leave package plus discretionary University closure days, excellent training and development opportunities as well as a great occupational pension scheme and a range of health-related support. The University is committed to a hybrid working approach.

For informal queries, please contact Professor Hua Zhao: [e-mail] and Professor Xinyan Wang: [e-mail]

Closing date for applications: 14 February 2026

For further details about the post including the Job Description and Person Specification and to apply please visit https://careers.brunel.ac.uk

If you have any technical issues please contact us at: [e-mail]

Brunel University of London is fully committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive workforce culture. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities, we particularly welcome applicants who are currently under‑represented in our workforce.