Postdoc in Computational Multistable Metamaterials

University-of-Oxford; Oxford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Oxford seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Computational Mechanics and Multistable Metamaterials to develop models of inflatable and multistable structures in central Oxford. The role is funded by UKRI and fixed-term from 1 March 2027 to 31 August 2027.

You will use nonlinear mechanics, numerical simulation and design optimisation to create materials with programmable shape, stiffness and load-bearing capacity, including systems with switchable stable configurations.

Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, Applied Mathematics or related field.
• Strong background in solid mechanics and nonlinear deformation.
• Experience with FE modelling using Abaqus, COMSOL, ANSYS or similar.
• Research in metamaterials, multistable systems, inflatable structures.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for modelling and data analysis.
• Strong publication record and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational models of inflatable and multistable structures and their assemblies, accounting for large deformations, material nonlinearity, contact and instabilities.
• Investigate how unit geometry, internal pressure and assembly architecture influence deployment, stiffness, strength and transitions between stable configurations.
• Characterise energy landscapes, snap-through transitions and hysteresis to establish design principles for mechanical metamaterials with controlled switching and shape retention.
• Use numerical simulation and optimisation to design structures with prescribed mechanical responses, in collaboration with experimental researchers who will fabricate and test the designs for validation.

Skills

PhD in related field

Solid mechanics

FE modelling

Python

Publications

Education

PhD or near completion in Mechanical Engineering/Computational Mechanics/Applied Mathematics

Tools

Abaqus

COMSOL

ANSYS

Job description

University of Oxford seeks a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Computational Mechanics and Multistable Metamaterials to develop models of inflatable and multistable structures in central Oxford. The role is funded by UKRI and fixed-term from 1 March 2027 to 31 August 2027.

You will use nonlinear mechanics, numerical simulation and design optimisation to create materials with programmable shape, stiffness and load-bearing capacity, including systems with switchable stable configurations.