Research Associate in Polymers for Sustainable HV Cable Insulation

The University of Manchester - Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Location: Manchester

Salary: £37,174 to £45,413 per annum (according to relevant experience)

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 17th July 2025

Closes: 11th August 2025

Job Ref: SAE-029256

Background

A Research Associate position is available for an outstanding and ambitious materials scientist to undertake research in the project: developing accelerating DC DYNAMIC cable technology for sustainable european electricity grid (DCDYNAMIC), a Horizon European collaboration focused on developing advanced insulation materials for high-voltage direct current (HVDC) applications.

The project aims to understand the morphology of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) in HVDC insulation. In particular, the work will investigate virgin XLPE, aged XLPE and the products from recycling XLP. These studies will include detailed characterisation of molecular weight distributions, degree of crosslinking, thermal-mechanical modelling and microstructural features that influence electrical performance.

Overall Purpose of the Job

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available for an outstanding and ambitious materials scientist to be part of the DCDYNAMIC project, a European initiative aimed at supporting the EU’s climate neutrality goals by 2050. The project focuses on the development of a high-voltage dynamic export cable to enable the reliable connection of floating offshore wind farms to the electrical grid. These cables must withstand harsh marine environments whilst maintaining their performance under dynamic mechanical stresses.

The successful candidate will be focusing on the morphological characterisation of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE), related polymeric insulation materials and the products from their recycling. The role involves investigating how polymer structure, including molecular weight distribution, degree of crosslinking, and crystallinity, affects the long-term performance of XLPE under operational conditions.

This research will contribute to the development of a more resilient and efficient offshore energy infrastructure. The post holder will work closely with European academic and industrial partners, integrating advanced materials science with high-voltage engineering to address one of the key challenges in renewable energy transmission.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Manager: Prof Ian Kinloch & Dr Lujia (Tony) Chen

Email: ian.kinloch@manchester.ac.uk / lujia.chen@manchester.ac.uk