Research Fellow in Active Matter

RFCSR; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

University College London (UCL) is seeking a Research Fellow in Active Matter to join the Department of Physics and Astronomy in London. The role focuses on theoretical and/or computational studies of self-driven particle systems, with opportunities to collaborate across disciplines.

The appointee will develop models, run simulations, analyse data, publish in top journals, present at international conferences, and may supervise postgraduate students within an interdisciplinary, world-class

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or related field is required.
• Experience in active matter or soft condensed matter is desirable.
• Strong computational and/or theoretical background in physics.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement models for active matter systems.
• Perform numerical simulations and data analysis.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Supervise postgraduate students and contribute to academic activities.

Skills

Python

C++

Numerical simulations

Data analysis

Publication

Communication

Education

PhD in Physics

PhD in Applied Mathematics

Tools

Python

C++

Job description

University College London (UCL) – Department of Physics and Astronomy

London, United Kingdom

University College London (UCL) is seeking a Research Fellow in Active Matter to join a dynamic and internationally recognised research environment within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of active matter, focusing on the physics of systems composed of self-driven entities such as biological or synthetic active particles.

The successful candidate will work as part of a collaborative research team, contributing to theoretical and/or computational investigations of active matter systems. The role involves developing and implementing models, performing simulations, analysing complex datasets, and contributing to the interpretation of experimental and theoretical findings. The postholder will be expected to publish high-quality research in leading peer-reviewed journals and present findings at international conferences.

In addition to research responsibilities, the Research Fellow may contribute to the supervision of postgraduate students and support broader academic activities within the department. UCL offers a vibrant, inclusive, and interdisciplinary research environment, with access to world-class facilities and strong opportunities for professional development.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position.

Eligibility Criteria

• A PhD in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related discipline
• Demonstrated research experience in active matter, soft condensed matter, statistical physics, or related areas

Required Expertise/Skills

• Strong background in theoretical and/or computational physics
• Experience in modelling complex systems and performing numerical simulations
• Proficiency in programming languages relevant to scientific computing (e.g., Python, C++, or similar)
• Ability to analyse and interpret complex scientific data
• Strong publication record or clear potential to publish in high-impact journals
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team

Salary Details
£41,374 to £49,559 per annum (inclusive of London Allowance)