Research area 1: Intelligent Structural Optimization using Physics-Informed Reinforcement Learning

Research area 2: AI-Enhanced Digital Twin Framework for Smart and Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing

Research area 3: Advanced Multifunctional Materials

The ideal candidates would have a background in machine learning, manufacturing, characterization, and testing of novel high performance multifunctional materials. During the project, you will conduct independent research within the designated area while actively seeking opportunities to apply your findings by engaging with relevant stakeholders. You will be expected to publish your research in reputable academic journals and present your work at leading conferences, contributing to the visibility and impact of your field. Additionally, you will engage in continuous professional development to enhance your expertise and skills. Your role will also involve contributing to the university environment through activities such as delivering invited guest lectures, participating in seminars, workshops, and early career researcher forums. Furthermore, you will play a key role in cascading the practical knowledge gained during the fellowship to key stakeholders, ensuring its wider dissemination and impact. The initial appointment is for one year, with the potential for continuation based on the progression of the project up to 3 years.

The International Science Partnerships Fund puts research and innovation at the heart of our international relationships, supporting UK researchers and innovators to work with peers around the world on the major themes of our time: planet, health, tech and talent. The fund is managed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and delivered by a consortium of the UK’s leading research and innovation bodies, which include: UK Research and Innovation (comprising the 7 research councils, Innovate UK and Research England), the UK Academies, the British Council, the Met Office, the National Physical Laboratory, the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and Universities UK International.

Early Career Researchers (ECRs) have completed or are close to completion of their PhD, potentially waiting for their final viva voce examination, which must be passed prior to taking up the award. ECRs will not have held a permanent academic post or a permanent post with a research-related element, or one which allowed them to supervise PhD students or submit research grants as a principal investigator. Time spent in teaching-only roles or academic related roles does not affect ECR status, provided no research element was part of the role. If a researcher does not hold a PhD but has research experience equivalent to a PhD holder and works in a field where a PhD is not a prerequisite for established research activity, they can still be considered eligible. Participants from for-profit organisations cannot be funded. As we move toward greater inclusivity for ECRs from a wide range of backgrounds, we are no longer counting years spent in a specific career stage. Career breaks and alternative trajectories to an early academic career are all considered outside the definition of career stage.

The British Council’s ISPF Early Career Fellowships are specifically designed to widen participation and to support the careers of researchers from a variety of backgrounds, including those whose backgrounds are underrepresented in their research field. This opportunity is available to early-career researchers:

• Who have not yet held a permanent research-related post or academic post with a research-specific element,

• Who wish to have a research experience at a UK university or research institution

The fellowship is for one year

Who can apply

The application is now open for early career researchers from the eligible countries/territories who have a proven background or interest in the proposed research area, demonstrate passions and plans to engage with other early career researchers from the home countries/territories, have a passion to contribute to capacity-building and socio-economic advancement after the scheme, and meet the English language requirement of the UK HEI.

The candidate will undertake research with collaboration with Ansys under the supervision of the award holder (Dr. Susmita Naskar). 

For further detail on this vacancy please contact Dr Susmita Naskar (S.Naskar@soton.ac.uk)

To apply for this role please ensure you have attached a CV and Research Statement of previous experience.

Closing Date: 20 Apr 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £36,636 to £44,746 Per Annum
Full Time Fixed Term for 1 year