Research Fellow (918017AT)

You will work on pioneering research on the effects of wood debris accumulations at bridge piers on the stability of bridges and flooding.

The accumulation of large woody debris around bridge piers obstructs the flow producing increased upstream water levels, large horizontal structural loadings and the modification of the flow field that can considerably exacerbate scour. These effects have frequently been responsible for the failure of a large number of bridges around the world, as well as for increased risk of flooding of adjacent areas. Yet, current methodologies available to estimate these effects are inaccurate and not based on a solid scientific understanding of the underlying phenomena. New research recently performed at the University of Southampton has provided improved understanding of the problem, enabling the development of more accurate models.

This NERC funded research project ‘DEBRIEF’ is aimed at tackling the above problem and at providing bridge asset owners and public authorities with key guidance on how to determine the increased risk of bridge failure and flooding due to debris accumulations. The project is a collaboration between University of Southampton (host institution), HR Wallingford, as well as private and public organisations such as Network Rail and the Environment Agency. The successful candidate will also have the opportunity to work in collaboration with other leading international research institutions such as the Polytechnic University of Turin.

The work will involve designing and performing laboratory experiments, as well as analysing a large body of experimental data that has already been generated as part of a previous project. This will be used to define state-of-the-art guidelines on how to determine the risks posed by debris blockages of bridges.

You will have a PhD* in Civil Engineering (Hydraulics) and an excellent research track record. Further experience in fluid-solid interaction, sediment transport, scour, river engineering and other related fields would be advantageous.

 *Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification.  The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD.  Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Be a part of the University of Southampton, an institution in the top one per cent of world universities and one of the UK’s top 15 research-intensive universities. We have an international reputation for research, teaching and enterprise activities. You will join one of the UK’s most dynamic centres for engineering and environmental research and education, rated number one in the UK for research power in REF 2014. 

For additional information/informal enquiries before submitting your application, contact Dr Gustavo de Almeida, g.dealmeida@soton.ac.uk.

Please include a covering letter and full CV in your application.

Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.

At the University of Southampton, we value diversity and equality.

Application procedure:

You should submit your completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk. The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. If you need any assistance, please call Matt Saxby (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 7749. Please quote reference 918017AT on all correspondence.

Closing Date: 04 Oct 2017
Post Type: Education, Research & Enterprise