Postdoctoral Research Assistant

University of Dundee; Dundee; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Dundee invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Civil Engineering (Environmental Fluid Mechanics) to join the Future Infrastructure and Environment Research Cluster. The appointment is a 9-month fixed‑term, Grade 7 position with a salary in the £37k–£40k range.

The role focuses on literature collation, designing scaled physical models, and data analysis using MATLAB/Python to better understand sediment-laden plume dynamics and slurry disposal impacts.

Qualifications

• PhD completed or in final write-up in environmental fluid mechanics or related field.
• Experience designing physical model or experimental studies.
• Experience with MATLAB or Python and data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Collate and analyse literature-based field and lab data on dredging and plume dynamics.
• Design and conduct scaled physical modelling experiments aligned with project objectives.
• Post-process and analyse data using MATLAB/Python to improve parameterisations and dumping strategies.
• Assist in collaborative research activities and produce technical reports, papers and conference presentations.

Skills

Data analysis

Literature review

Communication

Education

PhD (or writing-up)

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Assistant - UOD2441

Posted on 14 October 2026 | Reference: UOD2441

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Civil Engineering (Environmental Fluid Mechanics)

Grade 7 £37,694 - £39,906 p.a., Grade 7 (Training) £33,951 - £36,636 p.a. (for candidates who have not yet been awarded their PhD)

Full time (9 month fixed term)

Role Purpose
We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic, dynamic and well-qualified individual to join our Future Infrastructure and Environment Research Cluster as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Civil Engineering (Environmental Fluid Mechanics) based within the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Business at the University of Dundee.

• Collate and analyse relevant literature-based field and laboratory datasets from previous studies on the physical characterisation of suction dredging and dredge spoil disposal, and sediment-laden plume dynamics.
• Design and conduct scaled physical modelling experiments aligned with the scientific, environmental and commercial objectives outlined in the project description.
• Conduct data post-processing and analysis using appropriate methodologies and software (e.g. MATLAB, Python) to (i) develop improved parameterisations for sediment-laden plume behaviour, modified slurry discharge conditions, and their impacts on the resulting fine sediment deposition footprints, and (ii) inform improved slurry dumping strategies to minimise environmental impact from suction dredging operations.
• Assist in external collaborative research activities (e.g. steering group meetings, knowledge exchange) and the provision of strategic research outputs (e.g. technical reports, journal papers, conference presentations) aligned to the project objectives and the R&D collaboration agreement between Dundee and NPRA/Statens vegvesen.

On top of the specific research tasks outlined above, the post holder will also be expected to:

• Contribute to writing of high-profile publications for peer-reviewed journals and dissemination of findings at meetings, conferences, workshops and other networking events.
• Actively participate in other dissemination, reporting and knowledge exchange activities (e.g. outreach events, institutional seminar series and research away days).
• Pursue or contribute to pursuing research funding opportunities that expand the portfolio of the research cluster, support ongoing research projects and/or exploit future funding opportunities in relevant research areas.

The post holder will:

• Have completed or be writing-up a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, e.g. environmental fluid mechanics, coastal/marine hydrodynamics, sediment transport dynamics;
• Have experience in designing and/or conducting physical model or experimental studies in a logical, precise and systematic manner, preferably in environmental fluid mechanics, coastal/marine hydrodynamics and/or sediment transport processes;
• Have experience in utilising advanced laboratory facilities and/or measurement techniques: e.g. particle image/tracking velocimetry (PIV/PTV), acoustic/ultrasonic velocity profilers (ADV/UVP), optical backscatter SPM measurements (OBS) and/or particle characterisation (e.g. PSA, ESEM);
• Have a developing track record of publishing research outcomes in high quality academic journals and/or presentations at international conferences;
• Have excellent data analysis skills using appropriate software packages and/or programming languages (e.g. MATLAB, Python).
• Have proven ability to generate research ideas and implement them independently with a disciplined and methodological approach.
• Have evidence of undertaking and/or successfully participating in collaborative research.
• Have proven excellent communications skills, both verbal (e.g. presentations) and written (e.g. scientific journal/conference publications).