School of Engineering & Innovation
Location:
Aston University Main Campus
Salary:
£41,064
per annum (pro-rata)
Grade:
Grade 08
Contract Type:
Fixed Term
(22 months)
Basis:
Part Time
Closing Date:
23.59 hours BST on Wednesday 12 August 2026
Interview Date:
Friday 28 August 2026
Reference:
1051-26
Release Date:
Tuesday 21 July 2026
Are you a passionate researcher looking to help shape the future of sustainable infrastructure?
We are seeking a talented and enthusiastic Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join an exciting interdisciplinary research project funded by a prestigious APEX Royal Society Award. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of structural engineering, materials science and polymer engineering, developing next-generation materials for complex engineering environments.
Working within a collaborative interdisciplinary team spanning materials chemistry and civil engineering, you will play a leading role in the material characterisation and structural testing of advanced reinforced concrete structures. Your research will contribute to improving the durability, resilience and sustainability of future infrastructure.
You will:
Design and deliver high-quality experimental and analytical research in structural engineering.
Plan and conduct laboratory testing and analyse experimental data using appropriate computational methods.
Develop innovative research methodologies and contribute to project planning and reporting.
Publish your findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present your work at national and international conferences.
Collaborate with academic and external partners within a multidisciplinary research environment.
Support the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students where appropriate.
About you
You will have:
A PhD in Structural Engineering or a closely related discipline.
Experience in structural engineering research, ideally including reinforced concrete, structural materials, durability, structural health monitoring, corrosion, experimental testing or numerical modelling.
Strong analytical, organisational and communication skills.
The ability to work independently while contributing effectively within an interdisciplinary research team.
A commitment to delivering high-quality research and developing innovative engineering solutions.
Why join us:
Experience publishing research, presenting at conferences, supervising students and working with industry partners would be advantageous.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to an exciting interdisciplinary project. You will work alongside colleagues from Chemistry and Civil Engineering, develop your research profile through publications and conference presentations, and contribute to research that supports the resilience and sustainability of future infrastructure.
If you are an enthusiastic researcher with an interest in structural engineering and advanced materials, we encourage you to apply.
For any informal enquiries contact Dr Marina Bock at
[email protected]
What we offer:
Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
Excellent training and development opportunities.
A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
Great family friendly policies.
On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here .
This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.
See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at
[email protected]