FEM, Design & AI/ML Optimisation Engineer (KTP Associate)

Job Details

• Employer: University of Derby
• Location: Derby
• Salary: £36,000 - £40,000
• Closing date listed: 19 October 2026

About the Role

Develop computer-based design methods for industrial chimneys and inlet reinforcement systems. You will work with University of Derby academics, James Engineering staff and software specialists to improve design using numerical simulation and data.

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) brings a university and a business together to apply research to a practical business project.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop and apply Finite Element Method (FEM) models, which simulate how structures respond to forces.
• Use data-driven optimisation to improve industrial chimney designs.
• Develop and validate design methods and formulae for chimney inlet reinforcement.
• Address gaps in current Eurocode guidance and contribute evidence that could support future improvements to BS EN 1993-3-2.
• Work across academic, engineering and software teams to build a simulation-led design capability.

Essential Requirements

• MSc or equivalent in structural, mechanical or civil engineering, or a related subject.
• Demonstrated experience in structural analysis, design and FEM modelling.
• Practical numerical simulation and coding experience in Python, MATLAB or an equivalent language.
• Working knowledge of Eurocode-based structural design.
• Experience managing multi-stage technical work and producing reports and calculation records.
• Strong problem-solving skills supported by evidence.
• Ability to explain findings to academic and industry audiences.
• Teamwork, willingness to learn new software and standards, and initiative in technical delivery.

Read the official person specification for the full requirements.

Desirable Experience

• Optimisation methods such as Design of Experiments or Response Surface Methodology, and AI or machine learning.
• Experience with FEM or Computational Fluid Dynamics software, including ANSYS, Abaqus, MSC Software or equivalent tools.
• Knowledge of wind engineering and vortex-shedding analysis.
• Experience working with industrial partners or small and medium-sized businesses.

Benefits and Support

• Collaboration with academic experts, company engineers and specialist software developers.
• Experience applying research to industrial design and clean-energy challenges.

About the Employer

James Engineering is a family business specialising in structural steelwork, architectural metalwork and industrial chimney systems. It works across commercial, industrial, defence and energy infrastructure projects and is investing in digital design.