"Assistant/Associate Professor in Mechanical and Mechatronics Design"

The University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) was the first Sino-foreign university to open its doors in China. This award-winning campus offering a UK-style education has grown to establish a student body of over 9,000 in just 21 years.

The University of Nottingham Ningbo, China, a pioneer in Sino-foreign tertiary education, is rapidly expanding. It is looking for ambitious, talented academics with a passion for teaching as well as research flair to join its team of science and engineering experts. UNNC is part of the University of Nottingham’s Global University, and offers unique teaching and research opportunities in a highly dynamic economy.

The successful candidate will be expected to play a leading role in advancing research and teaching in Mechanical and Mechatronics Design, integrating core competencies in innovative and systematic design of mechanical and mechatronic systems and machines with hard engineering skills relevant to design and development.

The appointed candidate will lead major research projects as the principal investigator, spearheading funding bids and developing innovative methodologies that blend mechanical and mechatronic design with advanced technologies. He/she will apply expertise in areas such as mechanics, CAD/CAE modelling and simulation, actuators/electronics/sensors technology, control, machine learning/programming, and related fields to drive cutting-edge mechanical and mechatronics design innovation, taking a hands-on approach and designing, developing, testing and validating actual machines and prototypes. The role also involves designing and delivering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, enhancing teaching standards and methodologies to provide a world-class education. The candidate will publish high-impact research in top-tier peer-reviewed journals and present at leading international conferences to elevate the department’s global reputation. Additionally, they will build partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including industry and academic collaborators, to create innovative research opportunities and enrich student learning experiences.

Candidates must have a PhD degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechatronics engineering or a closely related field. They should demonstrate proficiency in hard engineering skills relevant to mechanics, mechatronics, and actual machine design. A proven record of research excellence with publications in peer-reviewed journals and success in securing research funding, and extensive teaching experience in higher education, including curriculum development and leadership in academic programmes are also essential.

Salary will be within the range of 450,190 RMB to 592,815 RMB per annum depending on skills and experience. In addition, an attractive package including employment support allowance, schooling and insurance will be provided for international appointments.

The post will initially be offered on a fixed term contract with the University of Nottingham, Ningbo, China for a period of five years starting January 2026 or as soon as thereafter. This contract may be extended by mutual agreement.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to: Prof. Christos Spitas, Department of Mechanical, Materials and Manufacturing Engineering, email: Christos.Spitas@nottingham.edu.cn. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Interviews will take place in Ningbo, China, if feasible – virtual interviews may also be held. Please be advised that normally your references will be contacted prior to the interview.

Applicants are invited to submit their applications via the application before 30 September 2025 23:59 which should include the following: a cover letter, an up-to-date CV, a publication list, a statement of teaching philosophy giving evidence of teaching excellence, a research statement indicating your planned research activities as part of our department.

If you are unable to apply on-line please contact the Human Resources Department, Tel: 86 574 8818 000 (Ext. 8998), Email: Job@nottingham.edu.cn.