Research Assistant in Design and Prototyping

This part-time Research Assistant role on the RAPID project focuses on the design and prototyping of embedded sensing systems for railway adhesion management technology. Key responsibilities include conceptual design, laboratory and field testing, and collaboration with industry partners. Applicants need an engineering degree and experience in product design, prototyping, and data analysis.

• Collect, analyse and interpret research data and draw conclusions on the outcomes
• Co-ordinate own work with that of others, use problem solving to affect the achievement of research objectives and contribute to the planning of the project(s)
• Present information on research progress and outcomes to a Principal Investigator or groups overseeing the research project
• Write up results from own research activity and provide input into the research project’s dissemination, in whatever form (report, papers, chapters, books).
• Newcastle University is seeking highly motivated researchers to join the RAPID (Real-time Predictive Monitoring of Particulate Flow for Industrial and Infrastructure Decision-making) project, an ambitious programme developing the next generation of intelligent railway adhesion-management technology.
• RAPID is addressi]ng one of the railway industry's most significant operational and safety challenges: the real-time prediction and optimisation of wheel-rail adhesion and sanding system performance.
• Working with industrial partner DB ESG, RSSB, and BrianRail, the project will advance a novel sensing and AI platform in field trials on operational railway infrastructure.
• This is a unique opportunity to contribute to technology with the potential to improve railway safety, reliability and sustainability worldwide.
• The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary team led by Dr Sadegh Nadimi.
• Find out more about the Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/sage/
• From conceptual design to optimisation of embedded sensing systems for railway applications
• Contribute to laboratory, rig-based, and field testing of RAPID prototypes
• Work closely with industry stakeholders during compliance assessment and railway trials
• Use research resources (including, where required, laboratories, workshops and specialist equipment) as appropriate

• Newcastle University is a global University where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all, offering opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.
• We value diversity as well as celebrate, support and thrive on the contributions of all of our employees and the communities they represent.
• At Newcastle University we hold a Gold Athena Swan award in recognition of our good employment practices for the advancement of gender equality.
• We also hold a Race Equality Charter Bronze award in recognition of our work towards tackling race inequality in higher education REC.
• We are a Disability Confident employer and will offer an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the role as part of the offer and interview scheme.
• In addition, we are a member of the Euraxess initiative supporting researchers in Europe.
• Attention to detail and ability to work at high levels of accuracy
• Ability to present complex information effectively to a range of audiences
• Proven ability to analyse data and write-up results
• Experience of working collaboratively with colleagues
• Excellent IT skills in all major office applications
• Experience in product design
• Experience in design and prototyping engineering solution
• The ability to use personal initiative and creativity to solve research
• Honours degree in Engineering or a related discipline