Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is a distinctive, unique institution, rooted in the Liverpool City Region and with a global presence. Our students and staff, past, present, and future, are the beating heart of our city and can be found in every corner of every industry and community. We couldn’t exist anywhere else and have shaped the city in which we belong. Working with the people of Liverpool to improve lives and support communities is at the heart of why we were founded and why we exist today. 

The Liverpool Logistics Offshore and Marine Research Institute (LOOM) within the Faculty of Engineering and Technology at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is focused on designing and operating large marine, offshore, port, transport and logistics systems. Our research outputs are rated 96% world-leading or internationally excellent, and research impacts are rated 100% world-leading or internationally excellent. 

LOOM seeks to appoint an exceptional PDRA with expertise in marine power, propulsion systems, and alternative fuels. You will hold a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Offshore Engineering, or, ideally, Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture.

This is a unique and prestigious opportunity to work with a world-leading research team on marine alternative fuels. You will be part of the EU Horizon-funded project “Retrofit Solutions to Achieve 55% GHG Reduction By 2030”, a cutting-edge initiative aimed at developing a combination of energy-saving solutions for retrofitting, with a focus on achieving 35% of GHG emissions from existing vessels.

 You will have expertise in all or some of the following areas: electrification of marine vessels, development and integration of fuel cell-battery systems, the design and simulation of hybrid powertrain architectures, optimising battery capacity for varying loads, and creating control strategies to ensure efficient and safe operation of electric and hybrid marine systems. In addition, the successful applicant must be capable of developing and maintaining research networks with existing and potential partners. You will be encouraged to seek out and create opportunities and proposals for future external funding. 

This position will be offered on a fixed-term contract for 1.5 years, with an expected start date as soon as possible. The project leader, Dr Eddie Blanco-Davis, can be contacted for informal enquiries at . 

In return, we offer an excellent benefits package including generous annual leave entitlement, pension scheme, induction, and development support as well as family-friendly policies.

This is an exciting time to join the university as we deliver the LJMU Strategy 2030 and its vision of LJMU as an inclusive civic university transforming lives and futures, by placing students at the heart of everything we do. 

If you feel that this is the role you have been looking for and your skills and experience can make a real difference at LJMU, we look forward to hearing from you.

The department is firmly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN Gender Equality charter for promoting the career of Women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) in higher education. We particularly encourage applications from women for this post, and all appointments will be made on merit, ensuring a fair and inclusive selection process.

Please note all of our vacancies will be closed to applications at midnight on the advertised closing date, unless otherwise stated.

LJMU are committed to adhering to the Principles set out in the Researcher Development Concordat; in line with this all fixed-term researchers will be supported to complete 10 days professional development activities per year (pro-rata).