Postdoctoral Research Associate in Prefabricated Modular Building Elements

Overview

The Department of Engineering at City St George's, University of London, is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the design, development, testing and validation of innovative timber-based prefabricated modular elements for renovating existing buildings. The work is part of a major Horizon Europe research project. The successful candidate will focus on a wooden structural framework for prefabricated modular elements intended for large-scale building renovation.

Responsibilities include research and development of timber systems, and support for the design, optimisation, testing and validation of timber structural frameworks and connection systems. This covers structural modelling, performance assessment, fire safety and sustainability evaluation, prototype development and compliance with European standards. Working with academic and industrial partners, the postholder will contribute to project delivery, dissemination and stakeholder engagement, and will travel internationally on a regular basis to participating countries for project meetings, research activities, site visits and demonstrations.

Requirements

Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in civil engineering, structural engineering or a related discipline, with expertise in structural analysis, numerical modelling and design to relevant standards. They should have experience of experimental research, data analysis, technical reporting and scientific communication, and be able to work in multidisciplinary teams. Experience in timber, modular or offsite construction, fire engineering, finite element analysis, sustainable construction or European-funded research would be an advantage.

What you get

The full-time post is offered on a permanent contract, reflecting the university's commitment to greater stability for research staff, with a salary of £43,482 to £44,746 per annum. The role is funded through external research funding, currently confirmed for 24 months. The university offers a pension scheme and a package of staff training and development, and operates a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants.

How to apply

Applications are made online, and further information is available in the job description.

Key dates

The closing date is 18 October 2026 at 11:59pm.