Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Floating Offshore Wind

RFCSR; Oxford; On-site; GBP 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

RFCSR in Oxford's Department of Engineering Science invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in floating offshore wind. The role focuses on high‑fidelity CFD simulations of floating wind turbines, employing actuator‑line models, and on developing data‑driven surrogate models for real‑time aerodynamic loads in experimental setups.

The successful candidate will contribute to machine learning surrogates and hybrid testing methodologies, collaborating within a multidisciplinary

Qualifications

• A solid background in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind turbine fluid mechanics is essential.
• Experience with data-driven modelling techniques and high-performance computing will support surrogate model development.
• Strong analytical skills and the capacity to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research group.

Responsibilities

• Conduct high-fidelity CFD simulations of floating wind turbines using actuator-line methods.
• Assess applicability of reduced-order models for turbine performance prediction and support development of surrogate models for real-time loads.
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary group to advance hybrid testing and understanding of floating offshore wind dynamics.

Skills

CFD

Wind turbine fluid mechanics

Data-driven modelling

High-performance computing

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

PhD (or near completion) in engineering/related

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Floating Offshore Wind

University of Oxford – Department of Engineering Science
Oxford, England, United Kingdom

This full-time fixed-term research position invites a motivated early-career researcher to join the Environmental Fluid Mechanics Group at the University of Oxford’s Department of Engineering Science. Funded by the Supergen Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub, the role focuses on the fluid dynamics of floating offshore wind — a leading edge of renewable energy research that blends numerical modelling, data-driven methods and experimental approaches to tackle real-world challenges in sustainable power generation. The post is initially for one year with the potential for extension and offers the opportunity to contribute to next-generation hybrid testing methodologies that advance understanding of turbine performance under realistic wind and wave conditions.

General Description
As part of the research project on floating offshore wind energy, you will engage in high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of floating wind turbines modelled via actuator-line methods. Your work will assess the applicability and limitations of reduced-order models for turbine performance prediction and support the development of machine-learning surrogate models capable of reproducing aerodynamic loads in real time for use in physical experiments. This blend of theory, numerical simulation and data-centric modelling aims to drive innovation in hybrid testing and deepen scientific understanding of how floating turbines behave in complex environmental conditions.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold a PhD (or be close to completion) in engineering, fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, applied physics or a closely related discipline. A strong record of research achievement, as demonstrated through publications or equivalent outputs, is expected.

Required Expertise, Skills
A solid background in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and wind turbine fluid mechanics is essential, with the ability to interpret and model the aerodynamics of wind energy systems and floating body dynamics. Experience with data-driven modelling techniques and high-performance computing will support contributions to surrogate model development. Strong analytical skills and the capacity to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research group are necessary for success in this role.

Salary Details
This position is offered on Grade 7 with a salary range of £39,424 to £47,779 per annum inclusive of the University of Oxford weighting.

Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 4 March 2026 at 12:00 PM (midday UK time).