Materials Research Engineer Blade Erosion

Job content

Research & Disruptive Innovation Directorate

Location: Blyth Partial Home Working available

Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult (ORE Catapult) is excited to be recruiting for a Materials Research Engineer Blade Erosion, this position will be based in our Research & Disruptive Innovation Directorate.

The Research & Disruptive Innovation Directorate supports the development and commercialisation of future offshore renewable energy technologies through applied research, key collaboration with UK and international stakeholders from industry and academia and via direct innovation with SMEs (Small to Medium Enterprises).

As a key member of the Blades Research Team, you will focus on supporting and developing new chemistry and materials-based projects for wind blade leading edges to tackle the largest wind blade maintenance issue of blade leading edge erosion. This will be achieved through an array of R&D activities in collaboration with ORE Catapult colleagues, national and international research organisations, UK industry and international businesses within the offshore renewables sector.

Tell me more about the position?

The UK Net Zero target date of 2050 and capacity goal of 40 GW of offshore wind by 2030 is driving massive growth in offshore power generation. Accelerated development of ever larger, more efficient blade structures is resulting in the need for operation at higher tip speeds to maximise the energy capture. However, higher tip speeds are currently being limited by leading edge erosion caused by weathering and high velocity rain droplet impact. Research is needed into fundamental understanding of the relationships between very high strain rate impact, weathering and polymeric viscoelastic behaviour, to drive new test method, analysis and new leading edge protection solutions.

As a Materials Research Engineer Blade Erosion you will support the Senior Materials Research Engineer Engineer on the chemistry and materials aspects on publically and privately funded projects for industry on wind blade erosion protection systems. This will range from developing test methods and analysis capabilities for improved understanding of the degradation mechanisms to identifying and developing new supporting chemistries and materials. Additionally, support will be given to develop the research strategy and new funding streams, practical manufacture of materials and test pieces in Blyth and associated delivery of testing particularly using DMTA, and support of academic developments working with staff and students in the Wind Blade Research Hub, ORE Catapult’s collaboration with the University of Bristol.

This will be performed in close collaboration with the Senior Materials Research Engineer and other materials and chemistry experts both internally and externally ranging from academia to industry. Th erefore, the preferred candidate will have excellent communication skills and ideally have previous experience of working with both internal and external stakeholders.

Partnering with our research and industry-based counterparts, you will be afforded the opportunity to create and publish high quality research publications representing ORE Catapult at technical and scientific forums and conferences. The quality of work produced within Research & Disruptive Innovation Directorate is integral to maintaining our reputation as a leading international technology solutions provider and the successful candidate will become part of this directorate and operate at the forefront of innovation and development for the Offshore Renewable Energy Sector.

The ORE Catapult’s vision is to be a leading international institution in terms of innovative technology solutions in the Offshore Renewables Energy Sector. The RDI Directorate develops and delivers the ORE Catapult’s most cutting-edge projects, focussing on the new frontiers being pushed by the sector. As the blade materials project portfolio grows, the RDI team needs to expand its technical capacity to meet this demand.

What do I need to qualify for this role?

To be considered for the position you will have:

A degree (or equivalent) in chemistry/polymer science/materials science or related discipline.

A PhD/EngD qualification in a topic relating to leading edge erosion. Topics considered relevant must include polyurethane and polyurea and be based around formulation, weathering, viscoelasticity or high strain rate properties.

Experience in DMTA testing and analysis

Highly computer literate – ability to use Microsoft packages and Matlab, the ideal candidate would have capability in using JMP and familiarity with molecular dynamics

Experience in producing research and/or technical reports.

Ability to work to tight deadlines and within a highly dynamic environment.

Experience in DoE is desirable.

Experience in a wide range of chemical analytical techniques and materials property testing.

An appreciation of composite materials and manufacturing techniques is desirable.

Who are we?

The offshore wind, wave and tidal sectors are amongst the fast-growing, most innovative and exciting industries in the UK and are at the forefront of supporting our transition to a low-carbon economy and our fight against the climate emergency.

Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult (ORE Catapult), is a leading technology innovation and research centre delivering the UK’s largest clean growth opportunity by accelerating the creation and growth of UK companies in offshore renewable energy. With locations across the UK and in China, ORE Catapult works with industry and academia to identify, develop, prove and de-risk promising new technologies and bring them to market. It is helping to reduce the cost of offshore renewable energy, supporting the growth of the industry and creating UK benefit.

Our working environment is open, inspiring and multicultural, and we provide great potential for personal and professional development. In return, an excellent remuneration package is offered which includes attractive basic salary, pension, bonus, and subsidised health care saving scheme.

How do I apply?

If you feel you have the skills and experience to be successful in this role, please take the opportunity to review the attached job description and apply using an updated CV which showcases the skills and experience you have relevant to the role.

Thank you for your interest in Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult.

Closing Date: 18th November 2021

Research shows that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalized folks tend to only apply when they check every box. So, if you think you have what it takes, but don’t necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please still make an application.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of race, sex, disability, religion and belief, sexual orientation, or status regarding gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.