Overview
The University of Sheffield's Geotechnical Research Group has been commissioned to deliver a programme of geotechnical centrifuge testing evaluating the long-term performance of a low permeability capping layer proposed for a long-term waste repository. The capping layer must maintain very low permeability while accommodating settlement-induced strain, and this project will use the School's geotechnical beam centrifuge, fitted with a purpose-built, hydraulically controlled trapdoor mechanism, to simulate differential settlement of the underlying waste under both rapid and slow deformation conditions.
You will be the lead researcher delivering this experimental programme, working closely with the PI and the School's experienced geotechnical and workshop technical teams. Your work will span test package fabrication, model preparation, centrifuge testing across preliminary and main test series, and analysis of deformation, strain and pore pressure data using digital image correlation and photogrammetry. Findings will be reported directly to the industry-based numerical modelling team, informing the design of the waste repository cap.
This is a technically rich, applied research role combining hands-on physical modelling with real industrial and regulatory impact, suited to an experienced experimentalist who enjoys leading testing campaigns from design through to reporting.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Design, fabricate and commission the centrifuge test package, including the hydraulically controlled trapdoor mechanism, in collaboration with the technical team.
- Prepare centrifuge models to specification, including capping layer compaction, granular layer pluviation, and installation of instrumentation such as pore pressure transducers, LVDTs and load cells.
- Plan and conduct the preliminary, main and start-stop centrifuge test series across a range of g-levels, calibrating equipment and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
- Analyse deformation, strain and pore pressure data using digital image correlation, photogrammetry and pore pressure contour mapping.
- Interpret test results to assess capping permeability, hydraulic barrier performance under differential settlement, and mechanical self-healing behaviour.
- Prepare milestone reports and present findings to the project team and to the numerical modelling team.
- Contribute to the project's final report and to academic dissemination, including papers and conference presentations.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records, including calibration, safety and data management documentation.
- Participate in Geotechnical Research Group meetings and contribute to the wider activities of the group.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Completion or near-completion (submission) of PhD in Geotechnical Engineering
Experience of geotechnical laboratory testing
Experience of geotechnical centrifuge modelling
Experience of bentonite enriched sands, high plasticity clays or similar
Experience with image-based deformation and strain analysis techniques
Experience of instrumentation and data acquisition for physical model testing (e.g. pore pressure transducers, LVDTs, load cells)
Ability to plan, execute and troubleshoot experimental test programmes independently
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing for academic and industrial audiences
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research and technical team and liaise with external partners
Experience of programming or data analysis tools (e.g. Python or MATLAB) for processing experimental data
Further Information
5th October 2026 – 4th October 2027
sheffield.ac.uk/mac/research/groups/geotechnical-engineering
For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Elisabeth Bowman, Reader in Geomechanics: on e.bowman@sheffield.ac.uk or on 0114 2224757
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place week commencing 24th August 2026. This will consist of an interview and a short presentation on relevant research and technical experience. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage in the week commencing 17th August 2026. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact
[email protected].
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision ().
What we offer
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways.
- A range of generous family-friendly policies
- paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- support for those going through the menopause
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
