Postdoctoral Research Associate in Prefabricated Modular Building Elements

City St George’s, University of London is the University of business, practice and the professions and brings together the expertise and excellence of City, University of London and St George’s, University of London into one institution. The combined university is now one of the largest higher education destinations for London students, combining a breadth of disciplines across health, business, policy, law, creativity, communications, science and technology. Our students are at the heart of everything that we do, and we are committed to supporting them to pursue their career and personal ambitions.

Our research is engaged, at the frontier of practice and has a positive impact on the world around us.

Background

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to contribute to the design, development, testing, and validation of innovative timber-based prefabricated modular elements (MEs) for the renovation of existing buildings as part of a major Horizon Europe research project. The successful candidate will focus on the development of a wooden structural framework for prefabricated modular elements intended for large-scale building renovation.

Responsibilities

You will undertake research and development of innovative timber systems for prefabricated modular renovation elements, the postholder will support the design, optimisation, testing, and validation of timber structural frameworks and connection systems. Responsibilities include structural modelling, performance assessment, fire safety and sustainability evaluation, prototype development, and compliance with European standards. Working with academic and industrial partners, you will contribute to Horizon Europe project delivery, dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and collaborative research activities, including regular international travel.

The postholder will be e xpected to undertake regular international travel to participating countries to support project meetings, research activities, site visits, demonstrations, and collaborative engagements with consortium partners and stakeholders.

Person Specification

You will hold, or be close to completing, a PhD in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related discipline, with expertise in structural analysis, numerical modelling, and design to relevant standards. You will have experience of experimental research, data analysis, technical reporting, and scientific communication, and be able to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams. Experience in timber, modular or offsite construction, fire engineering, finite element analysis, sustainable construction, or European-funded research projects would be advantageous.

Additional Information

Closing date for applications: 18 October 2026 at 11:59pm

For more informat ion about this role, refer to the job description.

This post is offered on a permanent contract, reflecting the University’s commitment to providing greater stability for research staff. The role is funded through external research funding, which is currently confirmed for 24 months.

City St George’s offers a sector-leading salary, pension scheme and benefits including a comprehensive package of staff training and development.

City St George’s, University of London is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all its activities, processes, and culture for our whole community, including staff, students and visitors.

We welcome applications regardless of age, caring responsibilities, disability, gender identity, gender reassignment, marital status, nationality, pregnancy, race and ethnic origin, religion and belief, sex, sexual orientation and socio-economic background. City St Geo rge’s operates a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled applicants.

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