Postdoctoral Research Associate - Developing Novel Metamaterials Inspired by the Spinal Structu[...]

The University of Manchester; Manchester; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Manchester invites applications for a Research Associate position in the Physics of Fluids and Soft Matter group. The successful candidate will engage in innovative research on flow instabilities and mechanical metamaterials, contributing to a vibrant academic environment while fostering inclusivity and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Research experience in mechanics of flexible structures is essential.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals is advantageous.
• Experience with mechanical metamaterials is desired.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on flow instabilities and fluid-structure interactions.
• Collaborate with a diverse team in the Department of Physics & Astronomy.
• Solve problems related to mechanics of flexible structures.

Skills

Research experience in mechanics of flexible structures

Excellent communication skills

Self-motivated

Ability to collaborate within a diverse team

Education

PhD in physics, engineering, or applied mathematics

Job description

Job Details

Job reference: SAE-028389

Salary: £37,174 - £45,413 per annum depending on experience

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Science and Engineering

Location: Oxford Road

Employment type: Fixed Term

Division/Team: Department of Physics & Astronomy

Hours Per Week: Full time (1 FTE)

Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 31/05/2025

Contract duration: Fixed term for 36 months

School/Directorate: School of Natural Sciences

Job Description

Applications are invited for a Research Associate position within the Physics of Fluids and Soft Matter group in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at The University of Manchester. The successful candidate will join a vibrant team researching flow instabilities and fluid-structure interactions at low Reynolds number.

We seek an individual with research experience in mechanics of flexible structures, with a focus on mechanical metamaterials inspired by the vertebral column of a hero shrew spine. The role, supervised by Dr. Draga Pihler-Puzovic, requires the candidate to hold or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, engineering, or applied mathematics. Experience in solving problems related to mechanics of flexible structures, particularly in studying mechanical metamaterials experimentally or theoretically, is essential.

Applicants from both experimental and modeling backgrounds are encouraged to apply, especially those with a proven ability to collaborate within a diverse team. Candidates should be well-organized, self-motivated, and possess excellent communication skills. A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals is advantageous.

Additional Information

The Department promotes Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access, contributing to the University's social responsibility initiatives, including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM. The department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016, reflecting its commitment to gender equality and inclusivity.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, or transgender status. Appointment will be based on merit, and applicants' diversity data will be confidential.

We support applications from those returning from a career break and are open to flexible working arrangements.

For more information, visit www.physics.manchester.ac.uk/about-us/equality-and-diversity.

Our university supports flexible and blended working arrangements.

Please note that we do not respond to enquiries, nor do we accept CVs or applications from recruitment agencies.

Contact Information

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting, and interviews:

Name: Dr. Draga Pihler-Puzovic

Email: [e-mail]

General enquiries:

Email: [e-mail]

Technical support:

Email: jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home

This vacancy closes at midnight on the specified deadline.