"(KTP Associate) Smart Energy Systems AI Engineer"

University of Exeter - Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy

Location: Devon, Exeter

Salary: The starting salary will be from £33,482 to £38,784 on Grade E, per annum, depending on qualifications and experience.

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Placed On: 3rd February 2026

Closes: 3rd March 2026

Job Ref: Q12919

The role:

An exciting opportunity has become available to work on a 30-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the University of Exeter and HydroStar Europe Ltd. The KTP will develop AI-driven control, optimisation, and forecasting tools that enable Hydrostar’s electrolysis systems to operate efficiently, safely, and economically under variable and unpredictable renewable energy inputs (solar, wind, hybrid systems).

The successful candidate will be employed by the University of Exeter and will spend the majority of their time working at HydroStar’s operational site in Exeter.

Company Information:

Hydrostar is an Exeter-based company developing advanced electrolysis technologies to enable practical, low-carbon hydrogen production. Our systems are modular, scalable, and engineered for real-world conditions, supporting applications from on-site industrial hydrogen generation to distributed energy systems. By combining electrochemical innovation with intelligent system design, Hydrostar aims to reduce the cost and complexity of green hydrogen and accelerate the transition to a net-zero energy system.

Green hydrogen, produced via water electrolysis using electricity from renewable sources, is increasingly recognised as a foundational element of future low-carbon energy systems. In recent years, the sector has undergone accelerated expansion, reflecting growing political, industrial, and financial commitment. Unlike hydrogen produced from fossil fuels, green hydrogen emits no carbon dioxide during production, offering a clean and sustainable energy vector for sectors that are difficult to decarbonize, such as heavy industry, shipping, and long-haul transport.

More information about Hydrostar Europe Ltd. can be found at: https://www.hydrostar-eu.com/.

Qualification / skills we require:

• A good degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a closely related field.
• Proficiency in coding with Python, MATLAB and data analysis techniques.
• Strong understanding and hands-on experience with the design, implementation and operation of control systems.
• Strong analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of machine learning/optimisation and renewable energy systems
• Ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) with ability to communicate complex and conceptual ideas to a range of people.
• Capacity to become a strong project manager, taking on the leadership of a strategic innovation project.

Benefits:

• A £5,000 training budget with 10% of your working time dedicated to personal development.
• A unique and challenging career opportunity, working with both industry and academia.
• The successful applicant will develop a wide range of industrial and research skills for their future career, utilising the skills and knowledge of company supervisors, as well as benefitting from continuous academic support.
• The opportunity to manage and lead on a project early on in your career.
• Specific KTP residential training.
• The possibility to write academic papers and present at conferences.

Package Details: Generous holiday allowances, flexible working, pension scheme and relocation package (if applicable).

The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer. We are officially recognised as a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.

Before submitting an application you may wish to discuss the post further by contacting Prof Ed Keedwell - e.c.keedwell@exeter.ac.uk, University of Exeter or Charlie Newbold - newboldcharles@hydrostar-uk.com at HydroStar.