Multiphysics Co-Simulation Engineer (KTP Associate)
Stoke On Trent £37,000 - £43,300
Job sector
Manufacturing / Engineering
Job function
Engineering
Job duration
Up to 24 months duration
Application closing date
26/07/2026
Job description
The Associate will develop and validate physics-based simulation models, write high-performance C++ and Python code to integrate simulation and control environments, build and maintain 3D CAD geometry, and configure 0D/1D system models in MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent tools. The Associate will work directly with Promtek’s engineering and projects teams to identify applications, interpret requirements, and embed the resulting capability within the company’s engineering workflows. The Associate will also contribute to knowledge transfer activities, including internal documentation, training, and academic outputs such as technical reports and conference papers.
The appointee will also be expected to:
- Present progress to joint supervisory meetings with Harper Adams University and Promtek at regular intervals throughout the project.
- Prepare and submit reports in accordance with KTP programme requirements.
- Contribute to the dissemination of project outcomes through academic and industry-facing publications and events.
- Support the development of internal training materials and standard operating procedures to sustain the co-simulation capability beyond the KTP period.
- Comply with the health and safety, data management, and intellectual property policies of both Harper Adams University and Promtek Limited.
Skills & Experience
Essential:
- A first or upper second class honours degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a closely related discipline.
- Demonstrable experience in 3D CAD modelling using professional software. Proven experience in 0D/1D simulation using MATLAB/Simulink or a comparable platform.
- Proficiency in C++ and Python programming, including the development of computationally intensive applications.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage complex technical work independently and within a team.
Desirable:
- A postgraduate qualification (MSc or PhD) in a relevant engineering or computational discipline.
- Experience with physics-based simulation tools such as DEM, FEA, CFD, or multibody dynamics software.
- Familiarity with virtual commissioning, hardware-in-the-loop testing, or PLC programming.
- Experience working in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
- Understanding of co-simulation standards such as FMI/FMU.
- Familiarity with version control systems and collaborative software development practices.
Applicants must complete the online application form and submit a full and current CV. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to in person interview, followed by a competency-based interview. The presentation topic will be provided to candidates in advance. Candidates may also be asked to complete a short technical exercise at interview
For adjustments to your application, contact vacancies@harper-adams.ac.uk
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Project description
This post is funded through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between Harper Adams University and Promtek Limited, a specialist manufacturer of bulk material handling equipment. The successful candidate will lead the development of a multiphysics co-simulation capability within Promtek, integrating virtual PLC controllers with physics-based models of the company’s equipment to enable virtual commissioning and executable prototyping. The role is based full-time at Promtek’s site in Staffordshire, with regular engagement with the academic supervisory team at Harper Adams University.
About the business
Promtek is a vibrant, family-run business established in Brindley Ford, Staffordshire in 1972. Promtek was established by Peter Williams with engineering at its heart and based upon the desire to provide expertise in designing and integrating process control and automation systems for a variety of bulk material handling industries.
Fast forward to the present and although Peter is now semi-retired he still remains active in the business with his sons Charles and Simon and Daniel taking over the daily reins.
Promtek has grown to specialise in Process Control and Automation, Recipe and Formulation Management Tools, Weighing and Calibration and Turn-Key System Integration.