Research Assistant in Cryogenic Fluid Dynamics

Role Description

We are excited to invite applications for this new Research Assistant post in an emerging field. The responsibilities associated with this role will contribute to a funded project aimed at constructing and operating multiple test rigs dedicated to liquid and vapor hydrogen systems. This includes the facets of storage, pumping, venting, and all associated subsystems specifically designed for hydrogen-powered civil aviation.

About the Role

We are in search of a highly motivated Research Assistant to join our team. The successful candidate will undertake simulations of fluid dynamics and system dynamics for LH2 (liquid hydrogen) systems, with a particular emphasis on 2-phase flow. Additionally, they will provide crucial support to the cryogenic team by offering insights into system performance to aid decision-making processes. The post-holder will also acquire and expand their knowledge on hydrogen and liquid hydrogen to contribute to the progress of our research and development endeavours.

Responsibilities include conducting simulations of fluid and system dynamics for LH2 systems, analysing simulation results to assess system performance and optimize design, assisting the cryogenic team in decision-making processes by offering insights from simulation results, and acquiring knowledge on hydrogen and liquid hydrogen properties, behaviour, and applications. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to incorporate simulation findings into LH2 system design and development, stay updated on simulation techniques and tools, and contribute to research efforts by participating in experimental testing, data analysis, and documentation of simulation methodologies, results, and findings for internal reference and reporting purposes.

About You

The ideal candidate should possess a Master's degree (MSc / MEng) in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering. They should demonstrate proficiency in simulating transient fluid, mechanical, and electric system performance using software packages such as Simscape, Modelica, and Amesim. Applied programming skills in tools like Matlab and Python are essential, along with experience in numerical methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations (ODEs and PDEs). Additionally, strong fundamentals in heat and mass transfer, coupled with a sound understanding of fuel and fluid-mechanical components and systems, are required. Experience in hydrogen fuel system developments in aerospace and familiarity with two-phase flow effects would be advantageous. Excellent verbal, written communication, and presentation skills are necessary, along with the ability to work effectively as part of a team, good organizational skills, and proficiency in problem-solving. Experience in project or research management in aerospace-related projects and relevant industrial or practical experience would be beneficial, as well as a track record of contributing to writing papers and publications.

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

Aerospace is at the heart of Cranfield’s global research airport and is renowned throughout the world for its teaching and research in the fields of aviation and aerospace. Cranfield Aerospace’s six centres are the powerhouses of our world class research, driving technological and conceptual advances in aeronautics, propulsion engineering, cyber-physical systems and intelligent automation. Find out more about our work here About Aerospace.

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here.

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here.

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply

For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Jon Huete Anton, Principal Research Fellow in Low Emission Technologies on (E): jon.huete@cranfield.ac.uk

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further details on E: peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 4854.

Closing date for receipt of applications:   30 June 2024