Research Associate (x2 posts)

Ulster University - North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2 Project

Location:BelfastSalary:£33,020 to £41,086Hours:Full TimeContract Type:Fixed-Term/ContractPlaced On:11th February 2026Closes:23rd February 2026Job Ref:041086

Department/School: School of Engineering

Campus: Belfast

Salary: £33,020 - £41,086 per annum

Duration: Fixed-Term for 3 years / Full-time

Closing Date: 23rd February 2026

Reference Number: 041086

ABOUT US

We are a university with a national and international reputation for excellence, innovation, and regional engagement, making a major contribution to the economic, social, and cultural development of Northern Ireland.

Our core business activities are teaching and learning, widening access to education, research and innovation, and technology and knowledge transfer.

THE ROLE

The North West Centre for Advanced Manufacturing 2 (NWCAM2) project is funded by the European Union through the PEACEPLUS Programme, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project is led by Catalyst, in partnership with Atlantic Technology University (ATU), North West Regional College, Ulster University, Trinity College Dublin, and Irish Manufacturing Research Centre. NWCAM2 is a cross-border innovation initiative seeking to help 30 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the health and life sciences sector to embed and accelerate sustainable manufacturing in their businesses.

As a key member of the NWCAM2 team, the postholder will support and deliver research and innovation projects with industrial partners across key themes such as additive manufacturing, digital manufacturing, and future materials. Cross-border collaboration is crucial due to the shared challenges in the region’s H&LS sector, particularly around sustainability, technological adoption, productivity, and market competitiveness. These research projects will be conducted across a wide geographical area of Northern Ireland and Ireland, where the companies are located, and therefore, the postholder would be expected to undertake the necessary travel to fulfil the requirements of the role.

ABOUT YOU

The postholder will be required to have:

• A first or upper second class honours degree in an engineering discipline or a closely related subject.
• A PhD (or near completion with thesis submitted) in engineering or a closely related subject.
• Relevant practical experience in the area of additive manufacturing technologies, including operating, troubleshooting, and optimising such equipment.

Please find our employee benefits on our website.

Athena Swan Statement

The School of Engineering holds a Silver Athena SWAN Award in recognition of our commitment to advancing Gender equality in higher education. You can read more about what this means on our University website. The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment, including flexible working.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities. Appointment will be made on merit.