Ultrasonic Inspection R&D Engineer: (KTP Associate)

FTE: 1 (37 hours/week)

Term: Fixed Term (21 months)

Closing date: 18/10/2026

The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde, in partnership with

National Oilwell Varco (NOV), is seeking to appoint a Research Engineer in Advanced Ultrasonic Inspection

Technologies to develop innovative phased array ultrasonic inspection methods for large-scale, safety-

critical industrial components.

This is an exciting opportunity for an engineer or applied physicist with experience in ultrasonic testing,

wave propagation, or non-destructive evaluation to work on technically challenging real-world problems

with direct industrial impact.

The role forms part of a prestigious Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) between the University of

Strathclyde and NOV, combining academic research with industrial implementation. The successful

candidate will work closely with university researchers and NOV engineering teams to develop advanced

phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT) methodologies, including modelling, experimental validation, and the

design of bespoke calibration approaches for complex geometries.

NOV is a global provider of equipment and technologies supporting the energy sector, operating in more

than 500 locations worldwide. The Forfar-based NOV team is responsible for advanced non-destructive

evaluation (NDE) technologies used to inspect critical drilling equipment deployed globally.

The project will address fundamental challenges associated with ultrasonic inspection of large-scale,

geometrically complex components where conventional calibration approaches are impractical. The

successful candidate will investigate ultrasonic wave propagation behaviour, inspection sensitivity, and

calibration methodologies using a combination of simulation, experimental validation, and industrial testing.

The overall objective of the project is to develop robust, standardised phased array ultrasonic inspection

methodologies for complex NOV components while embedding long-term inspection development

capability within the company.

The successful candidate will benefit from

A unique opportunity to apply advanced research to real industrial challenges

Collaboration with leading academic and industrial experts

Access to advanced experimental and industrial inspection facilities

A £5,000 personal development and training budget

Formal KTP management and leadership training

The opportunity to publish technical work and contribute to knowledge dissemination

Potential for long-term career progression within NOV

Exposure to globally significant engineering applications within the energy sector

The project is part of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme that aims to help businesses to innovate and

grow by working with UK universities. Successful Knowledge Transfer Partnership projects are funded by UK Research

and Innovation through Innovate UK and are part of the government’s Industrial Strategy. To find out how KTP works

and the vital role you will play if you successfully secure a KTP Associate position please visit: www.ktpws.org.uk

Interviews for this post will be on a date to be confirmed.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to Dr Ehsan Mohseni, ([email protected]).