Research Assistant/Associate in Non-Equilibrium Turbulent Flows over Rough Walls (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Hartford; On-site; GBP 33,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Cambridge is seeking a Research Assistant/Associate to work on non-equilibrium turbulent flows. The role involves numerical simulations, analysis of surface roughness, and collaboration with external partners. Candidates should have a strong background in fluid mechanics and a relevant PhD. Salary ranges from £33,002 to £46,049 annually depending on the role level.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in Fluid Mechanics, Engineering, Mathematics or Physics.
• Strong background in theoretical and computational fluid mechanics.
• Familiarity with analytical tools.

Responsibilities

• Conduct direct numerical simulations of turbulent flows over rough surfaces.
• Explore various Reynolds numbers and surface topographies.
• Characterise the effect of surface roughness on turbulence.

Skills

Theoretical fluid mechanics

Computational fluid mechanics

Numerical analysis

Parallel coding

Spectral methods

Collaboration

Education

PhD in Fluid Mechanics

Job description

Research Assistant/Associate in Non-Equilibrium Turbulent Flows over Rough Walls (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge

Overview

A position exists for a Research Assistant/Associate in the Department of Engineering to work on non-equilibrium turbulent flows over rough walls. The post holder will be located in Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK. The project involves direct numerical simulations of turbulent flows over rough surfaces under non-equilibrium conditions, including surface heterogeneity and evolving overlying flow conditions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct direct numerical simulations of turbulent flows over rough surfaces under non-equilibrium conditions.
• Explore a range of Reynolds numbers, domain sizes, and surface topographies.
• Characterise and model the effect of surface roughness on wall turbulence in non-equilibrium conditions.
• Investigate whether flow similarity exists across different rough surfaces and assess applicability of equilibrium concepts (e.g., roughness function, equivalent sand-grain roughness) under non-equilibrium conditions.
• Collaborate with UKRI/NSF project partners and integrate experimental data from the Virginia Tech team.
• Mentor PhD students and engage in collaboration within the research group and with external partners.

Qualifications

• PhD (or near completion) in Fluid Mechanics from an Engineering, Mathematics or Physics Department.
• Strong background in theoretical and computational fluid mechanics, numerical analysis, and familiarity with analytical tools.
• Experience with parallel coding and spectral methods.
• Excellent written and spoken English and ability to collaborate effectively within a research group and externally.

Salary and terms

Salary ranges: Research Assistant: £33,002 – £35,608 per year; Research Associate: £37,694 – £46,049 per year. Fixed-term: funds available for 24 months in the first instance. Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on holding a PhD; if the PhD is submitted but not yet awarded, the appointment may start at Research Assistant level and be amended to Research Associate once the PhD is awarded.

How to apply

Please upload your CV (including a list of publications) and a cover letter in the Upload section of the online application. Do not upload additional documents not requested. Submit your application by midnight on the closing date.

If you have questions about this vacancy, contact Prof Ricardo Garcia-Mayoral for technical queries and Anna Walczyk for application process queries. Quote reference NM47363 in your application and correspondence. The University supports equality, diversity and inclusion and all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

Further information

University of Cambridge

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