Research Associate, Electrical Engineering

Overview

We are looking to recruit two Research Associates to undertake an exciting project sponsored by UKRI in cooperation with international partners and UK industrial partners. As part of the role you will conduct research in the area of offshore HVDC transmission, onshore grid integration, converter modelling and control, and enhanced power system services, aiming to address the most pressing challenges in offshore wind power integration.

• Enhance renewable power reliability through innovative solutions such as voltage, frequency support, black‑start, and system restoration.
• Model and validate AC/DC networks, including simulation and hardware tests.
• Conduct theoretical stability analysis and implement practical control strategies.
• Create a tool that optimises and develops a restoration strategy for AC power networks.

• Developed AC/DC simulation models.
• Configured hardware‑in‑the‑loop test rig using existing devices.
• Project reports.

The candidate will work closely with international partners and UK industrial partners, develop international collaboration networking, and gain industry experience and commercial‑relevant skills. This role offers the chance to manage a challenging, real‑world project and implement strategic development within an innovative company, contributing to the overall research performance of the School and University.

Full‑time post (35 hour per week) available from 1 January 2026 for 18 months, fixed‑term until 31 December 2027.

Salary: £41,064–£46,049 per annum (Grade 6). The salary will be at the Grade 6 starting point of £41,064 per annum.

Job  

Informal enquiries:
Prof. Jun Liang, .

Further information on working at Cardiff School of Engineering:
Karen Baldwin / Chiara Riolo / Bev Jones, .

The School of Engineering holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award recognising good employment practice and a commitment to develop the careers of women working in science. Cardiff University is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

For this vacancy we actively encourage women to apply. We will also consider proposals for flexible working or job share opportunities.

Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities, or age.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh, and an application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application in English.

Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA), evaluating applicants on the quality of their research not publication metrics or the identity of the journal.