Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology

Novel Fibre Reinforced Polymer–Steel–Concrete Transition Structures for Offshore Wind Turbines (FRESCO) is a new research project funded by the Supergen Offshore Renewable Energy Hub. It aims to develop a novel glass fibre-reinforced polymer (GFRP)–steel–concrete tower-to-monopile transition structure for offshore wind turbines, with a focus on improving structural efficiency, durability, and ease of installation. Your work will include the development of advanced numerical models of the transition system, alongside the testing of a scaled prototype structure to demonstrate proof of concept. You will lead the technical activities related to modelling and experimental testing, including the design of test programmes and interpretation of results. The role will also involve analysing and synthesising findings, contributing to design recommendations, and disseminating outcomes through publications and engagement with relevant industry stakeholders and events.You are invited to contact Dr Sheida Afshan (s.afshan@soton.ac.uk ) for further information about this position in advance of submitting your application. Applicants should hold a PhD in Structural Engineering or equivalent professional qualifications and experience with previous relevant experience in computational modelling and experimental testing. Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. 

As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver an industry innovation research project as part of a research team developing molecular and sequencing workflows for microbial characterization. The work supports the rapid detection of microbial bioburden in biopharmaceutical cleaning validation using a Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) biosensor platform. Responsibilities include next-generation sequencing (NGS), qPCR-based molecular assays for microbial quantification and aptamer validation, and experimental support for aptamer discovery targeting environmental microorganisms listed in the US Pharmacopeia. Key Responsibilities Technical Responsibilities Perform microbial community characterization using next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms such as Illumina sequencing or Oxford Nanopore sequencing.  Design and perform qPCR-based molecular assays for microbial quantification and aptamer validation. Prepare DNA sequencing libraries, including nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and library preparation.  Conduct basic bioinformatics processing of sequencing data, including sequence quality control and taxonomic profiling where required. Support aptamer discovery and validation experiments, including nucleic acid preparation, amplification, and molecular characterization. Perform routine molecular biology techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA purification, and nucleic acid quantification. Maintain accurate laboratory records and experimental documentation. Research & Project Responsibilities Plan and execute experimental workflows to support project milestones related to microbial detection and biosensor development. Contribute to sequencing-based microbial profiling of environmental and cleaning validation samples. Work collaboratively with project investigators and interdisciplinary teams to integrate sequencing and molecular biology results with biosensor development. Prepare technical reports and contribute to scientific publications, presentations, and project documentation. Support generation of experimental data required for project validation and milestone reporting. Operational Responsibilities Ensure laboratory compliance with Work Safety and Health (WSH) regulations and institutional safety guidelines. Manage procurement and inventory of molecular biology and sequencing consumables. Maintain laboratory equipment used for molecular biology and sequencing workflows. Mentorship Support training of junior researchers, research assistants, and students where required.  Contribute to knowledge sharing within the research group. To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor. Job Requirements Essential Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a related field. Possessing a Master’s or PhD degree will be advantageous Hands-on experience with next-generation sequencing technologies, such as Illumina or Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms including sequencing library preparation Demonstrated experience working with environmental or low-biomass microbial samples. Demonstrated experience with DNA extraction and PCR amplification Demonstrated experience performing qPCR assays for nucleic acid quantification and molecular analysis, including troubleshooting Demonstrated experience with aptamer technologies or nucleic acid-based molecular recognition systems. Strong laboratory skills in molecular biology techniques. Preferred  Familiarity with microbial community sequencing workflows such as 16S rRNA sequencing or metagenomic analysis. Demonstrated experience with bioinformatics tools for sequencing data processing (e.g., quality control, taxonomic classification, microbial community analysis).  Demonstrated experience working in interdisciplinary or industry-linked research projects. Key Competencies Strong experimental design and troubleshooting skills in molecular biology.  Ability to independently conduct laboratory experiments and manage datasets. Strong scientific communication skills, including technical reporting and presentations. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams. Good organizational and project management skills.

Job Purpose The Research Engineer/ Research Fellow for Design Factory will play a pivotal role in identifying opportunities and problems that others choose to ignore and solve it with innovative and ingenious solutions that defy convention using proven technologies and innovations. Collaborating closely with faculty, industry partners, researchers, and students, the Research Engineer/ Research Fellow will co-create impactful, practical, and commercially viable products that bridge the gap between technologies and customers, encompassing environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Key Responsibilities Applied Research and Innovation Lead and manage projects focused on product innovation, including, Artificial Intelligence, renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable materials, and carbon reduction technologies. Explore emerging technologies, frameworks, and practices to advance product solutions in industries. Conduct product family Innovation Quadrant (IQ) analysis and resource optimization studies to address business challenges. Industry Engagement Collaborate with industry partners to co-create innovative products that enhance their portfolio and align with strategic business goals. Identify emerging trends and opportunities in Product Innovation to position SIT as a key partner in Design Thinking, New Product Development and Product innovation. Foster partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders to develop impactful projects that enhance environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Technical professionals who will work with local enterprises to frame projects, identify capabilities needed from the industry ecosystem, IHLs and centres. Involve in industry engagements, help to bring in higher value-added projects for the centres in SIT, Polytechnics and ITE. Applied Research and Innovation Lead and manage projects focused on product innovation, including, Artificial Intelligence, renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable materials, and carbon reduction technologies. Explore emerging technologies, frameworks, and practices to advance product solutions in industries. Conduct product family Innovation Quadrant (IQ) analysis and resource optimization studies to address business challenges. Industry Engagement Collaborate with industry partners to co-create innovative products that enhance their portfolio and align with strategic business goals. Identify emerging trends and opportunities in Product Innovation to position SIT as a key partner in Design Thinking, New Product Development and Product innovation. Foster partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders to develop impactful projects that enhance environmental, social, and economic outcomes. Technical professionals who will work with local enterprises to frame projects, identify capabilities needed from the industry ecosystem, IHLs and centres. Involve in industry engagements, help to bring in higher value-added projects for the centres in SIT, Polytechnics and ITE. Job Requirements A degree in Engineering or a related field. At least 5 years of relevant industry experience with a proven track record in production innovation and New Product Development. Deliver high-quality and professional ethics with passion for business development and managing customer relationships. Strong business acumen, project management experience and results-oriented with a strategic mindset. Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills and able to adapt in a fast-paced business environment. Good experience in Product Management: Develop and implement strategies for integrating sustainability and energy efficiency into the product lifecycle, from conception to market launch. Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills. Experience in writing project proposals and grants will be an added advantage. Extensive experience and knowledge of industry practices to bring industry perspective to SIT. Keen interest in innovation projects, with demonstrated ability in developing solutions to technical problems. Strong supervisory skills and enjoy working closely with students in an educational environment. Demonstrate proficiency to keep abreast of development in the field and pursue professional certification programs. Possess industrial certifications in relevant areas will be an added advantage.