The University of Manchester
Research Associate for Manufacturing-Oriented Computational Design

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Research Associate for Manufacturing-Oriented Computational Design
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join the Digital Manufacturing Lab as a Research Associate for Manufacturing-Oriented Computational Design. The project aims to develop a computational kernel to effectively generate optimised structure and toolpaths for robot-assisted additive manufacturing with dynamically changed material accumulation directions. The research is funded by The University of Manchester and the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
Responsibilities
You will be responsible for:
- Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with the assistance of a mentor if required.
- Conduct individual and collaborative research projects.
- Write up research work for publication.
- Prepare proposals and applications to external bodies, e.g. for funding and contractual purposes.
- Plan and manage own research activity in collaboration with others.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
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Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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About You
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.
Essential Criteria
- Have, or be about to obtain, a relevant PhD (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering / Industrial Engineering
- Specialist knowledge in computational design, advanced manufacturing, intelligent mechatronics or robotics
- Experience in C++ programming and mathematics formulation
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications.
Benefits
- Generous employer contribution pension
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
- Ride to work and EV car scheme available
For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here.


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About Us
We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.
Enquiries About The Role, Shortlisting And Interviews
Name: Charlie Wang
Email Address: charlie.wang@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries and administrative support
recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk
Technical and job portal support
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
Applications close at midnight on the closing date.
Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.
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