Accelerated Knowledge Transfer (AKT) Associate - Hydraulic Power Transmission Systems

The University of Bath is seeking an ambitious and highly motivated AKT Associate to work with the Director of the Centre for Power Transmission and Motion Control and ARC Aerosystems Limited on an Accelerated Knowledge Transfer (AKT) project.

About the role

This project will support the development of a novel hydraulic power transmission system for a next-generation hydrogen-powered rotorcraft. Working closely with academic and industrial partners, the Associate will play a key role in delivering a hydraulic transmission system design, including hardware specification, dynamic system modelling, control architecture, failure mode analysis and aircraft integration schemes.

You will gain experience at the interface of aerospace engineering, hydraulics, controls, and sustainable aviation technology while contributing directly to a pioneering UK aerospace programme.

Through this AKT, you will work with the University of Bath's Centre for Power Transmission and Motion Control, recognised as the UK's leading hydraulic systems research group, to co-develop a complete transmission architecture that supports ARC's future aircraft development programme.

We welcome applications from candidates who have:

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Proficiency in hydraulic circuit design and analysis.
• Experience with system simulation tools (MATLAB/Simulink, AMESim or equivalent).
• Understanding of system dynamics and control.
• Basic CAD capability for 3D installation layout.
• Understanding of failure mode and effects analysis methodology.
• Self-motivation and able to work independently within a structured project plan.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for producing the design report and presenting at review meetings.

About the Partners

The project will be supervised by Professor Andrew Plummer FREng, Director of the Centre for Power Transmission and Motion Control (PTMC), the UK's premier research group in hydraulic systems engineering. Professor Plummer is an internationally recognised expert in hydraulic power transmission, aerospace actuation systems and hydrogen-related fluid power technologies.

ARC Aerosystems develops advanced rotorcraft for regional air mobility and emergency medical services. Its flagship programmes, the Pegasus III and Linx P9 rotorcraft, are designed to provide affordable, sustainable aviation solutions and support commercial and air ambulance operations. The company is currently leading a £2.0M ATI-funded hydrogen rotorcraft programme.

Further information

This is a part-time role, working 0.5 fte for a fixed-term period of 3 months, and the role must start no later than 13 November 2026.

We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.

We're very proud to be a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. an accredited Disability Confident Leader; autism friendly university, committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff. 

Be Well at Bath

We’re committed to creating a health-supporting working environment where everyone can thrive and be at their best. We offer a range of resources to enable you to do that from your first day here, including:

• Staff support groups and networks
• A network of Staff Wellbeing Champions
• A suite of tools, resources and frameworks that enable you to be at your best and thrive

Find out more about being at your best at Bath.

Closing Date: 25 Oct 2026

Department: Education & Research

Salary: £41,885 pro rata