ABOUT THE ROLE Working as part of a multi-disciplinary team, you will lead the delivery of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project between Northumbria University and Zetica Ltd. This project focuses on developing an advanced simulation platform for railway track bed modelling with ground-penetrating radar (GPR). Key responsibilities include: • Designing and developing a software modelling platform for GPR responses of rail track bed. • Advanced modelling of track bed materials and 3D modelling of GPR antennas, leading to realistic simulation of GPR track bed responses. • Validation by direct comparisons with real world data provided by Zetica Ltd. • Collaborating with the Zetica Ltd team to embed innovative solutions and facilitate knowledge transfer. • Reporting progress to academic and industrial stakeholders and presenting findings to diverse audiences. This is a fixed-term role for 24 months based primarily at Zetica Ltd, who are in Eynsham near Oxford (UK). Salary in the range £30,000 - £39,000 per annum, commensurate with experience. ABOUT YOU Applicants should hold a first class or 2.1 degree (or equivalent) at Masters level in a relevant STEM field, e.g. physics, engineering, geophysics (PhD desirable) with: Strong, demonstrable experience of numerical modelling and simulation Experience of the Python programming language Knowledge of fundamental electromagnetics and wave propagation Software development experience The ability to write and present high quality written and oral reports as part of the KTP programme, and produce dissemination and promotional material for the company, specific to the project The KTP Associate will be based at Zetica Ltd to help embed this work into the company. In line with the University's mission and corporate strategy, and Zetica Ltd's business and culture, you will: Develop a full understanding of the strategic aims and function of the collaborative project between Zetica Ltd and Northumbria University. Undertake research, design, development, implementation, and project management and take ownership of the KTP project. Feedback to the project team and deliver the project in accordance with the project plan and KTP management requirements. Document progress during the project, as well as completing KTP records. Present research outputs to a varied audience including Zetica Ltd's management, clients, University academics and the KTP Local Management Committee (project team). Contribute to the dissemination of research findings through academic publications, enhancing your professional profile and supporting the University's research impact. Training and Development Opportunities The KTP Associate will benefit from professional development opportunities, including: KTP residential training modules, focusing on project management, leadership, and business skills. Participation in academic conferences, enabling networking and insights into industry best practices. A tailored Personal Development Plan (PDP) with structured career support and mentoring. Technical training in power electronics, control systems, and embedded systems, supported by university and industry experts. Hands-on collaboration with senior professionals at Zetica Ltd and Northumbria University to tackle real-world challenges Further information about the requirements of the role is available in the person specification. If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Dr Craig Warren (craig.warrennorthumbria.ac.uk). To apply for this vacancy, please click 'Apply Now.' Your application should include a covering letter and CV, highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. ABOUT NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY Northumbria University is a research-intensive university that unlocks potential for all. We change lives regionally, nationally, and internationally through education and research, tackling the global challenges of our age to transform society and the economy. Find out why we were named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. Northumbria recorded the biggest rise of any UK university for research power in the Research Excellence Framework for the second time in 2021 and is now ranked top 25 in the UK for this measure. Northumbria University is committed to creating an inclusive culture where we take pride in, and value, the diversity of our staff. We encourage and welcome applications from all members of the community. 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ABOUT ZETICA LTD Zetica is the UK's leader in engineering and environmental geophysics, with an enviable reputation for objective advice, novel problem solving, consistently high-quality surveys and easy-to-understand reporting. We also have a standout track record for innovation - including the development of multi-sensor platforms and smart data processing algorithms for mapping material change. Across all our work, we strive to be the best in class to help you to reveal the unseen.Are you an experienced researcher with a background in physics, engineering or geophysics? Join Northumbria University and Zetica Ltd to lead a cutting-edge project developing an advanced simulation platform for railway track bed modelling with ground-penetrating radar (GPR).