Research Associate (KK reference: KK12525

About the role

Project ‘POLARIS’ (production optimisation & large-scale data analysis for robust industrial systems) is being led by Domin, a UK leading company industrialising the additive manufacture (AM, 3D printing) of complex servo valves for all major sectors. In POLARIS, Domin will be scaling their manufacturing operations using industrial technologies and Bath will support by developing an additive manufacturing skills development pilot (teaching material, courses, hands on tutorials, seminars), addressing the AM skills shortage in industry. 

For this 12-month PDRA position we are seeking a dynamic individual to develop and design a new Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM) skills pilot to educate and upskill workers, in the first instance in Domin and then in the wider industrial community. The skills pilot could be employed at university level, in CPD courses and online (e.g., MOOCs or other online learning platforms).

In combination with this, you will be undertaking longitudinal studies to capture the learning journey of an individual who has undertaken the new pilot course(s). This information can then be used to improve the course and map the upskilling to help refine the pedagogy. 

About you

Working knowledge and experience of using additive manufacturing, specifically powder bed fusionDesign for Additive Manufacturing methods and tools (software)A keen interest in developing educational strategies that distill complex concepts to a wider engineering audienceCapability to use a range of creative tools to help design engaging learning content (Photoshop and other similar tools)Ability to plan out longitudinal studies to capture user insight data on the use of the new skills pilot

As a member of Research Staff at the University of Bath, you will be encouraged to take up a minimum of 10 days professional development pro rata per year

The ideal PDRA will have experience of additive manufacture (AM), specifically powder bed fusion technologies and DfAM methods and tools. You will also have a passion for disseminating knowledge and findings through new creative and innovative courses and teaching media. Experience of designing and executing longitudinal studies that can capture quantitative and qualitative findings will be a distinct advantage. 

What we can offer you

We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students, so we encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.

We are very proud to be an autism friendly university and are an accredited Disability Confident Leader; committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff.

Free counselling services through Health AssuredCycle to work schemeElectric vehicle salary sacrifice schemeStaff discount at Team Bath gymStaff discounts on postgraduate tuition feesStaff discount on language coursesGenerous employer contributory pension schemesGenerous annual leave allowance with an additional 5 discretionary days so that you can enjoy a positive work life balanceA wide range of personal and professional development opportunities including Apprenticeships, LinkedIn Learning and moreFree entry to the Holburne Museum in BathLocal discounts and moreA family-friendly workplace An excellent reward package that recognises the talents of our diverse workforceRelocation allowanceVisa reimbursement and Interest-Free Loan to help with the cost of some immigration expenses

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Closing Date: 04 Apr 2025

Department: Education & Research

Salary: £38,249 to £45,413