Research Assistant (Fuel Cell Systems)

University of Bath - Mechanical Engineering

Location: Bath

Salary: £31,236 to £37,694 Grade 6

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 23rd September 2025

Closes: 12th October 2025

Interview date: To be confirmed

About the role

This role offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of cutting-edge research in automotive propulsion as part of IAAPS - a world-leading research centre driving innovation in clean propulsion and mobility. As part of the University of Bath’s commitment to engineering net zero, you’ll contribute to transformative research in fuel cell systems - helping shape the future of sustainable transport.

You will be joining an expert team working on the digital twin of a hydrogen electric propulsion system as part of a government funded project in collaboration with a leading industrial partner.

As a key member of the project team, the successful candidate will:

• Develop and refine simulation models of propulsion systems using 1D and 3D tools to collect thermal, fluid, and performance behaviour.
• Design and implement a hybrid digital twin architecture, integrating physics-based models with real-time sensor data and digital processing components.
• Collaborate across disciplines with engineers, data scientists, and industry partners to co-develop solutions aligned with UK aerospace innovation priorities.
• Disseminate findings through high-quality technical reports, academic publications, and presentations at national and international events.

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Experience in thermal and performance modelling using tools such as Simulink, GT-SUITE, SimCenter or similar.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and/or Python for simulation scripting and system analysis.
• Ability to interpret sensor data and validate models against experimental or field data.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to document and present research clearly.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in developing digital twin architectures and integrating real-time data.
• Understanding of control systems, including dynamic response and actuator constraints.
• Familiarity with CFD/FEA tools for thermal and structural analysis.
• A track record of interdisciplinary collaboration, especially with AI, controls, or hardware teams.
• Knowledge of fuel cell stack and balance-of-plant component modelling

Further Information

There are two roles offered on a full time (36.5 hours per week) fixed term for 6 months basis

For an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch with Tom Fletcher (Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering) on tpf25@bath.ac.uk

To apply, please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

We encourage applications from candidates who may not meet every criterion but demonstrate strong potential and enthusiasm for the role. If you’re excited by the opportunity and believe you can contribute meaningfully, we’d love to hear from you.