Postdoc: Computational Metamaterials & Multistable Systems

University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science; Oxford; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science, seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to develop computational models for inflatable and multistable metamaterials. The role focuses on nonlinear deformation, stability analysis and energy landscapes, with collaboration to validate designs via experiments.

You should have a PhD (or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics or related fields, and be proficient in Python or MATLAB and FEM tools such as Abaqus,

Qualifications

• PhD or near completion inMechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or related field.
• Strong background in solid mechanics, nonlinear deformation, structural stability and mechanics of soft/slender structures.
• Experience in finite-element modelling using Abaqus, COMSOL, ANSYS or equivalent software, including nonlinear analysis and contact.
• Research experience in mechanical metamaterials, multistable systems, inflatable structures, soft robotics or related areas.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for numerical modelling, simulation automation, data analysis and optimization.
• Publications appropriate to career stage, strong communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational models of inflatable and multistable structures, accounting for large deformations and material nonlinearity.
• Investigate how unit geometry and assembly influence deployment, stiffness and transitions between configurations.
• Characterise energy landscapes and transitions to establish design principles for metamaterials.
• Use numerical simulation and optimisation to design structures with prescribed mechanical responses in collaboration with experimental teams.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Solid mechanics

Nonlinear deformation

Finite-element modelling

Data analysis

Optimization

Education

PhD in Mechanical Engineering / Computational Mechanics / Applied Mathematics

Tools

Abaqus

COMSOL

ANSYS

Job description

University of Oxford, Department of Engineering Science, seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant to develop computational models for inflatable and multistable metamaterials. The role focuses on nonlinear deformation, stability analysis and energy landscapes, with collaboration to validate designs via experiments.

You should have a PhD (or near completion) in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics or related fields, and be proficient in Python or MATLAB and FEM tools such as Abaqus,