University of Cambridge -Department of Engineering
Limit of tenure: 3 years.
A position exists for a Research Assistant/Research Associate in the Department of Engineering to work on a three year project to investigate reinforced concrete half-joint structures. A half joint is a particular type of support detail where an L-shaped ledge supports an inverted ledge of a drop-in span. Within the existing UK Highways Agency network alone there are 400+ concrete bridges with half joints. Half joint details have come under intense scrutiny since the collapse of a section of the de la Concorde Overpass in Quebec, Canada in 2006. This project will provide improved analytical tools and experimental evidence for the more accurate assessment of half-joint structures, and will inform the management strategy for half-joint structures throughout the UK. The project is funded by EPSRC and will involve collaboration with the Highways Agency, Atkins, and Parsons Brinckerhoff.
The key responsibilities and duties are to take a leadership role in the delivery of the project and to undertake an ambitious experimental and analytical research programme to improve our understanding of the failure modes and sensitivities associated with complex reinforced concrete details. A strong potential for research and scholarship excellence, and good planning and organisation skills are requirements for the post. The job tasks will include designing and developing an appropriate research methodology in order to address the research objectives, compiling and analysing quantitative and qualitative data, preparing reports, writing journal articles and presenting research results. Applicants will be expected to have obtained, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in engineering. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in structural engineering and expertise in reinforced concrete structures.
The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK.
The current salary scale for a Research Assistant is £24,049 - £27,047 and for a Research Associate £27,854 - £36,298.
To apply please complete form CHRIS /6 available at http://www.admin.cam.ac.uk/offices/hr/forms/ and e-mail with your CV, your academic transcripts, and covering letter to Lorna Everett, Structures Group Administrator (Div D), Department of Engineering, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, (Tel +44 (0)1223 332725, Fax +44 (0)1223 332662, email lje31@cam.ac.uk) to reach her not later than 3rd May 2013. Informal enquiries about this post may be addressed to Dr Janet Lees (jml2@eng.cam.ac.uk).
Quote Reference: NA27572
Closing Date: 3rd May 2013
Interview Date(s): Interviews will be held with selected candidates as soon as possible after the closing date.
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