Project Assistant

Directorate:
School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Grade:
Grade 5 £ 26,707 - £31,236
Contract Type:
Full Time (1.0 FTE), Fixed Term (4 Months)

This role focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of a digital twin model for on-site, renewable-driven green hydrogen generation systems. The successful candidate will contribute to an industry-sponsored applied research project, involving advanced system modelling, data analytics, and process optimisation to support next-generation hydrogen technologies.

The digital twin framework will incorporate real time electrolyzer performance which integration with renewable energy inputs (e.g., solar PV), real-time data interpretation, and techno-economic evaluation for system deployment and operational decision-making.

The postholder will work closely with academic and industrial partners as part of the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS), Heriot-Watt University — a global leader in net-zero energy research and innovation.

• Plan and conduct simulation and modelling activities aligned with project milestones under the guidance of the line manager
• Develop and refine a digital twin framework, incorporating systems engineering principles, real operational data, and control system modelling
• Validate the industry partner’s digital twin model and identify performance gaps through real-world demonstration datasets
• Assess system performance under variable renewable energy conditions and operational settings
• Prepare high-quality research outputs, including technical reports, presentations, and documentation
• Manage structured datasets, version-controlled simulation models, and model validation records
• Cooperate with internal and external collaborators to support industrial deployment and knowledge exchange opportunities
• Support laboratory-based experimentation where digital models will be benchmarked against physical systems
• Provide informal support to postgraduate and undergraduate students contributing to project activities
• Contribute to the preparation of future grant proposals and industrial collaboration opportunities
• Participate in outreach and knowledge-transfer activities such as demonstrations, school engagement, and public talks

We welcome applications from creative and motivated master’s degree candidates and early-career researchers who demonstrate strong initiative and a collaborative mindset.

You will join the Research Centre for Carbon Solutions (RCCS) — an internationally leading centre delivering advanced technologies to enable global net-zero goals. RCCS hosts world-class experimental labs, digital design facilities, and a diverse community of interdisciplinary researchers.

More information is available on the RCCS website.

• Master’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science (e.g., Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, Electronics & Communication, Energy, Renewables, Physics)
• Practical experience in system modelling, digital twin development, or mathematical optimisation
• Competency in simulation and design tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS/COMSOL, CAD-based environments)
• Strong analytical skills and understanding of hydrogen or electrochemical energy systems
• Ability to work independently, manage tasks, and meet defined deadlines
• Effective communication skills demonstrated through scientific writing or technical reporting
• Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary research environment

• Demonstrated experience in electrolyser operation, control systems modelling, and integration with renewable energy systems
• Familiarity with Data Analog Convertor (DAC) platforms, including data acquisition and seamless transfer of electrolysis cell performance data to digital dashboards
• Hands-on expertise in developing prototype-scale digital twin tools for system monitoring, optimisation, and predictive maintenance
• Good understanding of engineering system deployment, including industrial design constraints, compliance requirements, and operational safety considerations
• Proven track record of contributing to industry-linked and innovation-driven research…