Research Associate in Plasma Modelling (Fixed Term)

Area

Chemical & Environmental Engineering

Location

Jubilee Campus

Salary

£35,608 to £47,389 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

Closing Date

Tuesday 28 July 2026

Reference

ENG1845326

About the role - We are looking for a talented and motivated research associate in chemical and reaction engineering, to join an exciting EPSRC-funded project and work on non-equilibrium plasma modelling of ammonia synthesis. This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for 24 months initially, with the possibility of extension for up to another 12 months.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Yaoyao Zheng, the project lead, to develop multi-scale models that describe plasma-driven ammonia synthesis. The project aims to improve our understanding of plasma-catalytic processes and accelerate the development of sustainable ammonia production technologies.

You will develop and implement physics-based models using tools such as COMSOL Multiphysics, integrating plasma chemistry, heterogeneous catalysis, and gas-solid interactions. Depending on your experience and interests, there may also be opportunities to contribute to plasma reactor design and collaborate with experimental researchers.

To be considered, applicants should submit:

• an up-to-date CV (3 pages maximum);
• a covering letter that clearly outlines their suitability for the role; together with
• the online application

About the team- You will join the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham and become part of a growing team focused on resilient energy technologies and systems. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative research environment where everyone is encouraged to contribute their ideas and develop their career.

About you- You should have:

• A PhD (or be close to completion) in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, or closely related discipline.
• Experience in plasma modelling or computational modelling of reactive systems.
• Knowledge of heterogenous catalysis or gas-solid interactions.
• Experience with modelling software such as COMSOL or equivalent simulation tools.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.

What we offer- In addition to joining an ambitious and exciting research project, we offer:

• A friendly, diverse, and supportive working environment
• Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days (or pro rata) plus standard bank holidays and five university closure days including closure between Christmas and New Year.
• Access to training, mentoring, and career development opportunities
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where appropriate
• Access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes and many more. To find out more about what we can offer you, follow the link to our benefits website

What next- Further information is available in the role profile. To apply for this vacancy please click ‘Apply Now’ to complete your details.

Your working hours will be (36.25 hours per week). If you are interested in part-time work (minimum 29 hours per week), we encourage you to apply. Please specify your preferred hours in your application.

Please contact Yaoyao Zheng (Yaoyao.Zheng@nottingham) if you have further questions about this role. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

It is a condition of this post that satisfactory basic disclosure is obtained from the 'Disclosure and Barring Service'.