R&D Industrial Placement

In 2018, the IMO, set an ambitious target for the shipping industry to reduce Green House Gas emissions by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Fouling control coatings have an important role to play, by preventing the settlement of biofouling on the hulls of vessels thereby reducing drag, to help the shipping industry meet this target. AkzoNobel, through our International brand, are at the forefront in the development of new solutions to provide ship owners and operators with sharper insight into the impact that coating selection will have on their operational footprint, whether through the development of the next generation of fouling control coatings, services, and predictive tools. This is an exciting opportunity to join our team of hydrodynamists, marine biologists and chemists. Hydrodynamics and Marine Biology team The Hydrodynamic and Marine Biology team sit within the Fouling Control development team of AkzoNobel's Marine, Protective and Yacht business unit. The team delivers hydrodynamic testing of our coatings and a fundamental understanding of the physical properties of biofouling that contribute towards drag. Practical experimentation and data analysis forms a significant part of the project work within the team. The Challenge The hydrodynamic testing of biofouling is complex to carry out because of the need to keep biofouling viable for the duration of the test. This project is focused on the development of suitable biofouling mimics for laboratory scale hydrodynamic testing. Specifically, the project focuses on translating biofouling structure(s) measured by imaging techniques into physical casts. What will I be doing? Image capture and analysis: Quantitative scientific imaging of biofouling at various scales. Scripting to cross-reference test piece images captured at various spatial scales and analyses of image data. Test piece preparation: Designing and making artificial biofouling mimics with specific material and structural properties Hydrodynamic testing: Supporting hydrodynamic testing and evaluation of coatings, biofouled surfaces and biofouling mimics within the hydrodynamic facilities (multi-purpose flumes, rotating drums, surface profiler). Support: Work with AkzoNobel's team of scientists in support of project delivery. Academic requirements: You will be working towards a Science, Technology or Engineering related degree, that offers you the option of taking a Year in Industry.

• Experience of programming (i.e. Python, R, MATLAB) is essential, ideally with experience in image analysis
• Understanding of fluid dynamics would be beneficial.
• Experience of laboratory work would be beneficial.
• Good at following procedures & working safely.
• An eye for detail and an effective team worker
• Has ideas with the energy and determination to make them happen
• Excellent communication & interpersonal skills
• Wants to work in an international environment
• Enjoys a collaborative working environment where supporting colleagues is key
  
  Since 1792, we've been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people's lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands - including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon - is trusted by customers around the globe. We're active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It's what you'd expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that's dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today - while creating an even better tomorrow. Let's paint the future together., Operating in over 150 countries, AkzoNobel is home to well-known brands and has been awarded Top Employer status in the UK and Europe.
  
  We offer great personal development opportunities and roles with breadth, depth of scope and impact. We also offer comprehensive packages including:
• 25 days holiday excluding bank holidays
• Income protection
• Staff discount at Dulux Decorator Centre stores
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Employee Life Assurance
• Company pension
• Flexible benefits scheme offering benefits, We have been inventing the future for more than two centuries and need people like you to be part of the team.
We are advocates of a healthy work life balance and mental wellbeing. We may consider flexible working for this role.