Research Fellow

School of Engineering

University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

As this vacancy has limited funding the maximum salary that can be offered is Grade 7, salary £36,636

Grade: 7

Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to October 2027

Closing date: 25th October 2026

• The responsibilities may include some but not all of the responsibilities outlined below.
  Develop research objectives and methodologies for engine modelling, intelligent control, and calibration for engines operating on non-fossil fuels.
• Develop, calibrate, and validate engine, powertrain, and vehicle models using tools such as AVL CRUISE, IPG CarMaker, and MATLAB/Simulink, supported by experimental data and system identification methods.
• Investigate the effects of non-fossil fuels on combustion characteristics, engine performance, fuel consumption, and emissions through modelling and engine test bench experiments.
• Develop and apply Artificial Intelligence and optimisation techniques, including machine learning and metaheuristic algorithms, to data-driven engine modelling, intelligent control strategy development, and automated calibration.
• Implement, test, and calibrate engine control strategies using Pi OpenECU and Cosworth ECU platforms, including sensor and actuator integration, CAN communication, and data acquisition.
• Plan and conduct engine test bench experiments under steady-state and transient conditions representative of real-world driving cycles, and analyse experimental data to refine models and control strategies.
• Contribute to hybrid powertrain development, including system integration, coordinated torque control, and energy management optimisation to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Develop and validate vehicle-level torque distribution control strategies to improve traction, vehicle stability, and energy efficiency using learning-based methods.
• Support related experimental research in fuel sprays, combustion, and proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells.
• Contribute to research funding applications, technical reports, and project deliverables.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, presentations, and seminars.
• Provide technical support and training to PhD students working on related research topics.
• Work closely with academic and industrial partners to coordinate research activities, review progress, and deliver project objectives.
• Participate in public engagement, enterprise, and knowledge transfer activities as required.

* These indicative responsibilities may also be included in a research role at grade 6.

To create and contribute to the creation of knowledge by undertaking a specified range of activities within an established research programme and/or specific research project.

This Research Fellow position is based in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Birmingham and will support an industry-funded research project focused on engines operating on non-fossil fuels and their integration into hybrid electric vehicle powertrains. The research will involve engine modelling and simulation, intelligent control strategy development, and data-driven calibration, applying AI and optimisation techniques, including machine learning and metaheuristic algorithms, to improve engine performance and efficiency and reduce emissions.

Control strategies will be implemented and validated using Pi OpenECU and Cosworth ECU platforms, supported by engine test bench experiments. The project will also address hybrid powertrain development, including engine-electric motor integration, coordinated torque control, and energy management optimisation, in close collaboration with industrial partners.

• Develop and apply AI and optimisation techniques, including machine learning and metaheuristic algorithms, to engine modelling, intelligent control strategy development, and data-driven calibration for engines operating on non-fossil fuels.
  Conduct engine test bench experiments, analyse experimental data, and implement and validate engine control strategies using Pi OpenECU and Cosworth ECU platforms.
• Contribute to hybrid powertrain development, including engine-electric motor integration, coordinated torque control, and energy management optimisation to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Develop and validate vehicle-level torque distribution control strategies to optimise traction, vehicle stability, and energy efficiency.
• Work closely with industrial collaborators, support student supervision, and contribute to research publications, technical reports, and funding applications.

• A PhD (or thesis submitted) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Solid experience in engine modelling, simulation, and calibration using IPG CarMaker, AVL tools, or MATLAB/Simulink, with knowledge of non-fossil fuels.
• Experience in intelligent control and data-driven calibration, with practical knowledge of Pi OpenECU and/or Cosworth ECU platforms.
• Strong programming and analytical skills in MATLAB and Python, including experimental data processing and model validation.
• Familiarity with hybrid powertrain systems and TDC development, including coordinated control and energy management optimisation.
• The ability to contribute to research planning, technical publications, project reports, and funding applications.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to coordinate work with academic and industrial partners and support research students.
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 and how to ensure equal and fair treatment in day-to-day activities.

Informal enquiries to Hongming Xu, email: h.m.xu@bham.ac.uk

Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style. Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience. Such applications will unlikely be progressed to interview.

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website.