The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

Overview

We are looking for an experienced Research Associate (PDRA) to join our projects funded by the Royal Society and EPSRC. This 9-month PDRA position is hosted within the Structural Engineering research group in the School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering at the University of Sheffield, working with Dr Behzad Nematollahi. There is a potential for extension of the post for 3 months until 30 June 2027. The post holder will investigate the mechanical properties, durability properties, and structural performance of 3D-printed concrete materials and structures at multiple length scales. The 3D-printed concrete is made with geopolymer- and/or Portland cement-based binders.

The successful candidate will be qualified to PhD level in concrete technology or a related field, with expertise in 3D-printed concrete and geopolymer concrete technologies, and experience in conducting independent experimental research studies. They will carry full responsibility for the practical implementation of the projects while working closely with other team members.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Develop and maintain laboratory studies to examine and quantify fresh and hardened properties, durability properties, and structural performance of 3D-printed concrete materials and structures.
• Manufacture 3D-printed specimens and evaluate their physical and mechanical properties, including (but not limited to) pumpability, extrudability, buildability, failure patterns, elastic modulus, compressive strength, flexural strength, anisotropy, and bonding strength.
• Manufacture 3D-printed specimens and evaluate their durability properties, including (but not limited to) carbonation, freeze and thaw, chloride penetration, corrosion, sulphate, and acid resistance.
• Manufacture 3D-printed structures and evaluate their structural performance.
• Use advanced characterisation methods (e.g., XRD, SEM-EDS, FTIR, TGA, and MIP analysis) to study the microstructure of 3D-printed specimens.
• Read scientific literature to keep up-to-date and informed on relevant scientific developments and the international background of the research topic, and to inform and develop the research programme undertaken by the team.
• Plan, prioritise and schedule experimental work with regard to the expected outcomes of the project, analyse and interpret the experimental results, monitor progress and discuss results in the form of biweekly reports and supervisory meetings. Prepare minutes and agreed actions from such meetings for the project team.
• Prepare reports and peer-reviewed scientific papers describing the outcome of the research for publication.
• Attend relevant scientific meetings, research conferences, and other relevant events, deliver written and oral presentations of research findings at such meetings and to the research team at progress review meetings.
•  Coordinate and liaise with members of the project team and research groups over work progress and preparation for formal meetings.
• Develop and manage a programme of dissemination and outreach activities, including website and other relevant media, to promote and communicate the research issues, technical concepts, and scientific findings arising from the project.
• You will make a full and active contribution to the principles of the ‘Sheffield Academic’. These include the achievement of excellence in applied teaching and research, and scholarly pursuits to make a genuine difference in the subject area and to the University’s achievements as a whole. Further information on the underpinning values of Sheffield Academic can be found at Sheffield Academic.
• 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.

Further Information

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place week commencing 15th June. This will consist of a presentation by the candidate followed by a formal interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage on the week commencing 8th June . If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact mac-recruiters@sheffield.ac.uk.

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

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
  • access to menopause support in the workplace
  • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
  • and more

More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

We are a Disability Confident Leader (opens in a new window). 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.

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision (www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.