Research Fellow (Monitoring of railway infrastructure with trackside telecom cables)

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This Research Fellow position at the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AiPT) presents an exceptional opportunity for a motivated individual to contribute to cutting-edge research in photonic sensing and AI-driven solutions. As a key member of the HORIZON-EU-funded ECSTATIC project, you will be at the forefront of integrating advanced optical technologies with machine learning to develop novel applications for real-time event detection and infrastructure monitoring.

The core of this role involves the application and validation of innovative distributed optical sensing techniques, including novel distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). You will focus on monitoring railway infrastructure, from structural elements like bridges to track components such as sleepers and ballast, utilizing existing telecommunications fibre networks. This hands-on position requires leading the design and execution of laboratory structural testing, conducting field monitoring, and developing sophisticated data processing methods for damage detection and characterization.

Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Pioneering Research: Work within one of the world's leading photonics research centers, contributing to groundbreaking advancements in fibre-optic sensing and AI. Exposure to High-Impact Projects: Be an integral part of a significant EU-funded project (ECSTATIC), offering international collaboration and visibility.
• Skill Development: Gain invaluable experience in designing and executing experiments, field data acquisition, and developing advanced data processing and AI algorithms for real-world infrastructure monitoring.
• Interdisciplinary Environment: Collaborate with experts in photonics, AI, and civil engineering, fostering a rich learning and growth environment.
• Career Progression: This role offers a strong foundation for further development in research, innovation, and project leadership within the photonics and sensing domain.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Technical Expertise: A strong background in photonics, optical sensing, and potentially machine learning or data science is essential for success in this role.
• Research Acumen: The ability to independently design, execute, and analyze experimental work, coupled with a passion for scientific inquiry, will be crucial.
• Project Ownership: Candidates should be proactive and capable of taking ownership of key project deliverables, including experimental design and data analysis.
• Field Work: Be prepared for potential field monitoring activities, which may involve working on-site at railway infrastructure.

Aston University Benefits:

Joining Aston University means benefiting from a supportive and rewarding work environment. You will enjoy:

• A vibrant campus located in the heart of Birmingham city centre with excellent transport links.
• Excellent training and development opportunities to further your professional growth.
• A generous annual leave scheme, including 30 days of bookable leave and an additional 13 days for bank holidays and university closures.
• Everyday discounts for various activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies to support work-life balance.
• On-site gym and pool facilities with discounted staff membership.

This position offers a competitive salary in the range of £38,784 to £46,049 per annum.