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

University of Manchester; Manchester; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a vibrant research team at a leading university as a Research Associate focusing on innovative mechanical metamaterials. This role emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving in the mechanics of flexible structures. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess a strong publication record. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on fluid-structure interactions while promoting diversity and inclusion within the academic community. If you're passionate about advancing knowledge in physics and engineering, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Research experience in mechanics of flexible structures is essential.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Design novel mechanical metamaterials inspired by biological structures.
• Collaborate effectively within a diverse research team.

Skills

Mechanics of flexible structures

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Physics

PhD in Engineering

PhD in Applied Mathematics

Tools

Theoretical tools for mechanics

Job description

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

We are seeking to appoint an individual with research experience in mechanics of flexible structures. The post, under the supervision of Dr Draga Pihler-Puzovic, must commence before 1st October 2025 and will focus on designing novel mechanical metamaterials inspired by the vertebral column of a hero shrew spine. You are required to hold, or about to obtain, a PhD (or equivalent) in physics, engineering, or applied mathematics. The successful applicant is expected to have experience in solving problems in mechanics of flexible structures — in particular, some experience in studying mechanical metamaterials, be that experimentally or using theoretical tools. We welcome applications from both experimentalists and modellers with a proven capacity to collaborate effectively within a diverse team. You should be well-organised and self-motivated with excellent communication skills. A strong publication record in internationally peer-reviewed journals is advantageous.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is committed to promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Access through contributing to the University’s social responsibility agenda, demonstrating a commitment to its policies, activities and delivery of initiatives including the Athena SWAN charter for promoting women’s careers in STEMM subjects (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) in higher education. The Department has held JUNO Champion status since 2016 for its commitment to achieving gender equality which positively promotes inclusivity for all.

As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status. Appointment will be made on merit and equal opportunities data completed by applicants will not be accessible by the Recruiting Manager and panel.

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

For further information, please visit this link.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Blended working arrangements may be considered.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:

Name: Dr Draga Pihler-Puzovic

Email: [e-mail]

General enquiries:

Email: [e-mail]

Technical support:

Email: Technical Support

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.