Lecturer or Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering DA-R)

Explore Ambitious Research and Inspire Future Generations: Lecturer/Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton

This is an exceptional opportunity for visionary academics in Mechanical Engineering to join a world-renowned university committed to fostering ambitious research and inspiring future innovators. The University of Southampton, within its Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, is seeking to appoint individuals to Lecturer or Associate Professor positions within its dynamic Mechanical Engineering Department. This role offers a unique platform to contribute to the university's "triple helix" strategy, seamlessly integrating research, education, and enterprise, and empowering you to explore your full potential while shaping the minds of tomorrow.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Pioneering Research Environment: Become an integral part of the National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS), a leading research group. You'll contribute to strategic growth in cutting-edge areas, including digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, and life sciences.
• Focus on Emerging Fields: The department has a particular interest in candidates whose work aligns with future mobility (automotive wear, dynamics, propulsion, future fuels), foundational tribology, surface engineering, contact mechanics, materials degradation, and lubrication science. There's a strong emphasis on research at the intersection of these fields with digital tribology, machine learning for predictive wear, sustainable materials, and tribological challenges in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
• Support for Independent Research: If you have clear plans to build an ambitious independent research program, this role provides the ideal environment. The university actively supports the development of your research agenda, encouraging you to think bigger and create your own opportunities.
• Funding Opportunities: You'll have the potential to secure external research funding from prominent sources like UK research councils, the EU, charities, and industry partners, significantly bolstering your research profile and impact.
• Collaborative and Collegiate Culture: Join a vibrant, research-led community that thrives on collaboration and enterprise across faculties and the wider university.
• Access to State-of-the-Art Facilities: Benefit from access to sector-leading, high-performance facilities, with a strong institutional commitment to maintaining this competitive edge.
• Generous Benefits Package: The university offers a comprehensive relocation and benefits package, including a contributory pension scheme, competitive holiday allowance, subsidized health and fitness facilities, a cycle-to-work scheme, and a range of discounts, all designed to support your well-being and success.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: The University of Southampton is deeply committed to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion. They actively encourage applications from under-represented groups and hold prestigious awards like the Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and Athena SWAN awards. They also recognize the importance of flexible working arrangements and support for those with caring responsibilities.
• Attractive Location: Situated on the south coast, Southampton offers excellent connectivity with London and an international airport, all within proximity to the beautiful New Forest.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Research Vision and Ambition: Candidates are expected to demonstrate clear plans for building an ambitious, independent research program. This role is best suited for individuals with a strong drive to push the boundaries of their field.
• Funding Potential: A key aspect of the role involves securing external research funding. Candidates with a proven track record or strong potential in this area will be highly valued.
• Teaching and Mentorship Skills: The ability to inspire and support students and colleagues across both teaching and research activities is crucial. This includes a commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment.
• Alignment with Strategic Research Areas: While diverse expertise is welcome, candidates whose research aligns with the specified strategic growth areas, particularly in tribology and its interdisciplinary applications, will find this role particularly compelling.
• Experimental and Computational Expertise: Demonstrated experience in experimental methods, computational modelling, or industrial collaboration will be a significant advantage.
• Application Submission: When applying, you are encouraged to submit a comprehensive academic CV along with a compelling cover letter detailing your current and future research plans and how your vision will contribute to the University of Southampton.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a leading academic institution, advance groundbreaking research, and make a tangible impact on the future of mechanical engineering. If you are driven by innovation and aspire to inspire the next generation of engineers, we encourage you to explore this rewarding career path.