Principal Research Engineer - Advanced Composites
Location: Bristol | Hours: 37 per week | Hybrid: 2 days on-site | Salary: £56,641 - £70,929
About the Role
We are seeking a Principal Research Engineer to lead high-impact R&D programmes in advanced composite materials. This is an exciting opportunity for a technically strong engineer with a solid foundation in materials science, hands-on manufacturing experience, and a passion for translating research into real-world industrial solutions. You will play a key role in developing innovative fibre architectures, resin systems, and multifunctional composites for aerospace, high-performance engineering, and other industrial sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and deliver complex R&D programmes focused on advanced composites, manufacturing processes, and structural performance.
Apply materials science expertise to develop novel fibre architectures, resin systems, and multifunctional composites.
Collaborate with industry partners, government stakeholders, and academia to accelerate technology readiness and adoption.
Mentor junior engineers and researchers to foster technical excellence and collaborative growth.
Prepare technical documentation, proposals, and publications.
Ensure compliance with project security protocols for roles requiring DV clearance.
What We're Looking For
UK National eligible to obtain and maintain Developed Vetting (DV) clearance.
Degree, MSc, or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a related discipline.
Strong understanding of composite materials, design, processing, and performance characteristics.
Proven track record of leading R&D projects and delivering tangible outcomes.
Industry experience, ideally in aerospace, high-performance engineering, or related sectors.
Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and project leadership skills.
Desirable Attributes
Familiarity with 3D textile technologies (weaving, braiding, embroidery) for composites.
Knowledge of advanced materials, coatings, CVD/CVI, meta-surfaces, or high-temperature composites.
Experience with destructive/non-destructive testing, digital design tools, simulation software, and automated manufacturing.
Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
Awareness of sustainability and circularity in composite materials.
