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Structural Engineering and Computational Modelling● OpenResearch staff⏰ 6 days leftPreview

FEM & AI/ML Optimisation Engineer (KTP Associate)

Develop an AI-driven FEM platform for industrial chimney design with James Engineering and the University of Derby.

Best for:Best for recent engineering graduates with an MSc in Structural, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering and hands-on experience in FEM, Python/MATLAB, and Eurocode-based design.

University of Derby · Derby, United Kingdom

More professors at University of Derby

Finite Element Method (FEM)AI/ML-driven optimisationEurocode-compliant structural designIndustrial chimney systemsDigital engineering solutions

This is a research staff position — not a PhD studentship.

Deadline

Oct 20, 2026

6 days

Funding

Salaried

£36k–£42k/yr

Start date

flexible (commencing w/c 26th October 2026)

Full-time

Location

Derby

United Kingdom

Overview

This Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) role at the University of Derby involves creating an innovative software platform, James Engineering Modelling Design (JEMD), that integrates Eurocode-compliant design, advanced numerical modelling, and AI/ML-driven optimisation. The successful candidate will collaborate with academic experts, engineers, and software developers to advance simulation-led design capabilities for industrial chimney systems. The position is part-funded by the UK Government’s KTP programme and offers a competitive salary, training, and a £3,500 development budget. It is ideal for graduates with expertise in structural analysis, FEM, and coding.

FEM optimisationAI/ML in engineeringEurocode structural designIndustrial chimney systemsKnowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)Python programmingMATLABStructural analysis

What you'll do

Lead the development of the James Engineering Modelling Design (JEMD) software platform integrating FEM and AI/ML optimisation.
Apply advanced numerical modelling techniques to design industrial chimney systems compliant with Eurocode standards.
Collaborate with academic experts, engineers, and software developers to establish a simulation-led design capability.
Develop and implement AI/ML algorithms for optimising structural designs and workflows.
Manage multi-stage technical workflows and deliver structured technical outputs like reports and calculation records.
Participate in training and development programmes provided by the KTP scheme.
Contribute to the advancement of digital engineering solutions for clean-energy infrastructure.

Requirements

Degree required: MSc in Structural, Mechanical, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline (or equivalent qualification)

Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic and professional communication

Instruction: English

Required skills

Demonstrable experience in structural analysis and Finite Element Method (FEM) modelling
Practical numerical simulation and coding experience in Python or MATLAB
Working knowledge of Eurocode-based structural design principles
Experience managing multi-stage technical workflows and delivering structured technical outputs
Ability to collaborate effectively with academic and industry partners

Nice to have

Experience with AI/ML techniques for engineering applicationsBackground in digital transformation or software development for engineering solutionsKnowledge of clean-energy infrastructure design

Eligibility

Eligibility for Skilled Worker visa under specific UKVI criteria (e.g., job on Immigration Skills List, PhD qualification, or postdoctoral position)
English language proficiency requirement for visa eligibility

Funding & terms

Type

Salaried

Amount

£36k–£42k/yr

Duration

21 months (fixed-term)

Programme

UK Government’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme

UK Government (via KTP programme)

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-10-20

Applicants must apply online via the University of Derby’s job portal. The application process will require a CV, cover letter, and other relevant documents. Ensure your application highlights your technical skills in FEM, coding, and structural design. The University will assess sponsorship eligibility during the shortlisting stage.

Documents required