Associate – Knowledge Transfer Partnership [KTP] Parkinson Spencer Refractories / Aberystwyth University

Associate – Knowledge Transfer Partnership [KTP]
Parkinson Spencer Refractories / Aberystwyth University

36.5 hours per week
24 month fixed term from project start
Grade 7: £38,205 – £44,263 per annum

The role

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Associate with a robust background in computer science to join our dynamic project team at Aberystwyth University. The successful candidate will be at the forefront of developing advanced computational tools tailored for the ceramics industry, playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application. This role requires expertise in creating customized algorithms to optimize the dense packing of complex-shaped objects, a key innovation that will lead to a significant reduction in the ceramics industry’s carbon footprint, driving critical environmental benefits. These advancements are not just a technical improvement but a vital step toward sustainability in the industry. Additionally, the Associate will leverage innovative machine learning techniques to enhance the packing process and design intuitive, user-friendly front-end tools accessible to non-specialists.

The Associate will be embedded with the industrial partner and serve as the key liaison with the academic team. They will be responsible for thoroughly documenting the project using a version control workflow, a crucial practice that ensures changes to the project’s code and documentation are tracked, allowing for collaboration, error recovery, and improved organization. Proficiency in C programming and Python is essential for this role. Additionally, experience with machine learning frameworks and full-stack development skills are highly desirable and will significantly enhance the candidate’s ability to contribute to the project.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a critical project, develop valuable contacts and expertise in both academia and industry, gain essential skills in an Industry 4.0 environment, and be part of a multi-disciplinary team. There is significant potential for career progression opportunities beyond this project for the successful candidate.

To make an informal enquiry, please contact Dr Adil Mughal at aqm@aber.ac.uk or Jafar Daji at Jafar.Daji@parkinson-spencer.co.uk

Appointments are normally made within 4 – 8 weeks of the closing date.

Further Particulars

This job description is subject to review and amendment in the light of the changing needs of the University, to provide appropriate development opportunities and/or the addition of any other reasonable duties.

Parkinson Spencer Refractories (PSR) https://www.parkinson-spencer.co.uk

Parkinson-Spencer Refractories (PSR) is an independent, family-owned UK manufacturer with roots dating back to 1800. Over the past 220 years, PSR has grown into a leading designer and manufacturer of refractories and glass industry solutions, now serving over 300 customers in 78 countries from their Halifax, Yorkshire site.

PSR specializes in refractory products and engineered systems for the glass container manufacturing industry. Their core business includes producing feeder expendables and forehearth and distributor refractories, along with designing and supplying glass conditioning systems. Annually, PSR produces up to 1,500 tonnes of refractories using a slip-casting process followed by energy-intensive heat treatment in kilns.

As part of its strategy, PSR is committed to supporting the decarbonisation of the industry. A key focus is improving the sustainability of its manufacturing processes, with a particular emphasis on achieving decarbonisation goals through new, innovative technologies. Digitisation is seen as a crucial pathway to reducing energy use in this energy-intensive sector.

Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)

This position forms part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), funded by Innovate UK
and the Welsh Government. It is important that you understand how KTP works with
business and the University (in this case Aberystwyth University), and the vital role you will
play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position. For more information on KTPs
please visit https://www.ktp-uk.org/graduates/.

About the role

Working with a team of both scientists and industry-focused professionals, the Associate will collaborate closely with researchers at Aberystwyth University to explore and identify commercially viable applications for PSR’s innovative manufacturing processes.

PSR manufactures ceramic products on an industrial scale for the glass industry, with these products requiring firing in large industrial kilns. Each kiln batch includes a variety of objects that can differ in size and shape. A significant production cost for PSR is the energy required to heat the kiln. To address this, PSR has identified an opportunity to reduce both energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by optimizing the packing density of items within the kiln, thereby lowering the cost per unit of production. In this project, you will develop advanced computational methods to maximize the efficient packing of objects within the kiln, contributing to both environmental sustainability and cost efficiency.

The Associate will be responsible for developing a computerized system to optimize kiln packing density, navigating challenges in technical execution, resource management, collaboration, and project oversight. Essential to this role is experience in planning, conducting, and testing scientific simulations, with the code development undertaken in close collaboration with the academic team.

Key technical challenges include coding for objects with variable shapes, which will require the implementation of advanced algorithms and extensive testing. The project will progress from simpler scenarios to more complex ones, demanding a meticulous approach to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Maintaining comprehensive documentation via version control (e.g. GIT) is crucial. The Associate will be responsible for managing the project from inception to completion, proactively addressing technical and resource challenges as they arise.

Working closely with both the Company and Academic Supervisors, this role at PSR is ideal for an independent and entrepreneurial scientist. The successful candidate will independently solve problems, gather insights into the manufacturing process, and apply this knowledge to simulations. They will also oversee the day-to-day implementation of solutions, identify opportunities for commercialization and development, and report progress to the company and project management. Responsibilities will include ordering materials, analysing data, and ensuring the project stays on track. This role will require regular in-person meetings and visits to the academic team in Aberystwyth, ensuring close collaboration and effective communication throughout the project’s duration.

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded individual interested in developing advanced computerized solutions for a pioneering industrial company.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• To apply expertise in C programming, focusing on developing Computational Geometry Algorithms Library (CGAL) tools and customized C code for simulating the optimal packing of complex objects.
• To utilize proficiency in Python and experience with AI frameworks, such as PyTorch, for machine learning segments of the project, while also demonstrating full-stack development skills for interface creation using technologies like JavaScript and React.
• To collaborate effectively with remote teams, implement version control (GIT) for documentation, and demonstrate effective communication and documentation skills to ensure successful project execution and progression.
• There is a hands-on aspect to the role as it will involve working with kiln loading personnel to understand the challenges of real-world refractory loading problems and to grasp the various products and associated kiln loading constraints.
• Understanding and suggesting kiln loading techniques, including solutions generated by computer simulation, while liaising with departments such as Sales, Technical, and Production to identify new and improved loading/stacking methods.
• Identify and implement improvements in tests, processes, and equipment to enhance both workplace safety and the quality of results.
• Monitor the project budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of resources throughout the project.
• Monitor relevant technology advances in literature.
• Preparing weekly and monthly progress reports, as well as technical reports as needed. Additionally, attending project meetings and providing detailed updates to the team.
• To undertake health and safety duties and responsibilities appropriate to the post.
• Any other reasonable duties requested commensurate with the grade of this role.

Who you are – Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills required:

Essential

1. Hold (or about to be awarded) a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Computer Science or an equivalent discipline.
2. Strong background in scientific computing with a focus on optimization and algorithm development
3. Proficiency in Python and C programming.
4. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
5. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
6. An ability to interpret data and assimilate its implications in context of the study aims and objectives.
7. The ability to manage time effectively and to deliver detailed reports to strict deadlines.
8. An ability to understand the bilingual nature of the University and an awareness of the procedures in place to support working bilingually*.

Desirable

1. Post-doctoral research experience.
2. Experience with machine learning techniques (such as PyToch) and their practical applications.
3. Full-stack development skills (e.g. experience with JavaScript and React)
4. Good public speaking & presentation skills.
5. A valid driving licence.
6. Knowledge and experience with Git for version control and documentation.
7. Ability to interpret and understand CAD designs and models, ensuring effective collaboration with design teams and accurate application to project requirements.
8. Oral (spoken) and Written Welsh Level B1*

*More information on Welsh Language Levels can be found at:
https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/hr/policy-and-procedure/welsh-standards/

How to apply

To promote a flexible workforce, the University will consider applications from individuals seeking full time, part time, job share, or term time only working arrangements.

Applications for this role must be made through jobs.aber.ac.uk. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy in Welsh or English and any application submitted will be treated equally.

Benefits
• 34 – hour week for full-time roles
• 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Commitment to Professional Development.
• Health and wellbeing support schemes.
• Enhanced contribution to our workplace pension schemes.
• Opportunity to learn the Welsh language for free
• Maternity, Paternity, Parental and Adoption Leave.
• Staff discount for gym facilities, hospitality, and retail on University campus.

Please keep reading

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities and, those that are currently underrepresented in our workforce. This includes but is not limited to Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, candidates with disabilities, and female candidates.
We are a Bilingual Institution which complies with the Welsh Language Standards and is committed to Equal Opportunities. Welsh language skills are considered an asset to the institution, and we encourage and support staff to learn, develop and use their Welsh language skills in the workplace. You are welcome to apply for any vacancy in Welsh or English and any application submitted will be treated equally.
*Appropriate knowledge is classed as the following:

• A national of a majority English speaking country
• Having an academic degree taught in English (if an overseas degree, must be verified by NARIC)
• Completing and passing an English language test at Level B1 or above.

Employment Visa:

Under the UK Government’s points-based system scheme, this role does not meet the crite-ria to be sponsored by Aberystwyth University (AU) for a Skilled Worker Route (SWR) appli-cation.

Working with a team of both scientists and industry-focused professionals, the Associate will collaborate closely with researchers at Aberystwyth University to explore and identify commercially viable applications for PSR’s innovative manufacturing processes.

PSR manufactures ceramic products on an industrial scale for the glass industry, with these products requiring firing in large industrial kilns. Each kiln batch includes a variety of objects that can differ in size and shape. A significant production cost for PSR is the energy required to heat the kiln. To address this, PSR has identified an opportunity to reduce both energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by optimizing the packing density of items within the kiln, thereby lowering the cost per unit of production. In this project, you will develop advanced computational methods to maximize the efficient packing of objects within the kiln, contributing to both environmental sustainability and cost efficiency.