Research Associate in Fluid Dynamics

University of Leicester; England; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A university in the UK is seeking a Research Associate for a project on resolvent analysis in fluid dynamics. The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess strong numerical analysis skills. Responsibilities include performing resolvent calculations and exploring stratified flows. The role offers flexible remote working options within the UK but requires at least one day a week on campus. The position is part of a commitment to professional development within a diverse and inclusive community.

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Excellent pension scheme

Generous annual leave allowance

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in numerical analysis of fluid flows using linear algebra methods.
• Evidence of contributions to peer-reviewed publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Perform resolvent calculations using an in-house numerical tool.
• Explore different regimes of stratification.
• Provide insights into non-modal growth mechanisms.

Skills

Numerical analysis

Analytical problem-solving

Communication skills

MATLAB proficiency

Education

PhD in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Job description

We are seeking a Research Associate to join our School of Engineering and contribute to the EPSRC-funded project “Resolvent Analysis for Strongly Stratified Flows.” This exciting research aims to develop an efficient resolvent model in the low‑Mach‑number limit to capture the dynamics of flows with strong variations in fluid properties. The project offers a unique opportunity to advance modelling techniques for non‑ideal gases and supercritical fluids, with significant potential for impact in fluid dynamics research.

In this role, you will perform resolvent calculations using an in-house numerical tool, exploring different regimes of stratification. Your work will provide new insights into non‑modal growth mechanisms and help lay the foundation for predicting turbulent coherent structures.

Given the short duration of the project, remote working within the UK will be considered, provided that the research associate is able to spend at least one day per week on campus. You will hold a PhD in Applied Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline, and have proven expertise in numerical analysis of fluid flows using linear algebra methods such as resolvent analysis or stability analysis. Strong analytical problem‑solving skills and evidence of contributions to peer‑reviewed publications are essential. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment are also required. Knowledge of stratified flows and proficiency in MATLAB would be advantageous. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Benjamin Bugeat ([e-mail]).

We anticipate that interviews will take place on 27 January 2026.

As part of the University's ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying. More information regarding secondments can be found here. The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people's lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you'll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. As a diverse and forward‑thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. We're committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

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