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- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research project on soft and active matter, focusing on fluid dynamics and material behaviour.
- Company: Durham University is a leading institution known for its innovative research in physics and soft matter.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time position with opportunities for collaboration and professional development in a vibrant academic environment.
- Why this job: Contribute to impactful research that influences both scientific understanding and real-world applications like geological processes.
- Qualifications: A PhD in Physics or Mathematics is essential, along with strong research and publication experience.
- Other info: The role is fixed-term for 24 months, starting September 2025, with potential for exciting research focus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter
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Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter role at Durham University
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The Role
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate in the theory of soft and active matter, to work with Prof. Suzanne Fielding in the Department of Physics at Durham University on a project funded by the ERC Advanced Grant \’RheoYield\’.
The Role
Applications are invited for a postdoctoral research associate in the theory of soft and active matter, to work with Prof. Suzanne Fielding in the Department of Physics at Durham University on a project funded by the ERC Advanced Grant \’RheoYield\’.
The position is to commence in September 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Its overall aims will be to understand the deformation and flow behaviour of so-called yield stress fluids, which keep their shape like solids at low loads, yet flow like a liquid at larger loads. One possible focus could be on the dynamical process whereby a material in an initially solid-like state firsts yields and starts to flow, and in particular on the statistical physics of how initially sparse plastic events in an otherwise elastic background then spatio-temporally cooperate to result in an emergent macroscopic flow. Besides the immediate applications of the work to soft matter physics, and potentially also to the fracture mechanics of hard materials, yielding also governs geological processes such as landslides, avalanches and lava flows. It also determines the reshaping of active biological tissue under the internal stresses caused by cell division, including during embryo development or tumour growth. Depending on the interests of the candidate, the project could develop a more specific focus on any of these particular areas of research. The work will draw on concepts of fluid dynamics, rheology, solid mechanics, statistical physics, nonlinear systems and related fields.
Further details about Prof. Fielding\’s research group can be found at http://community.dur.ac.uk/suzanne.fielding/, about the department at https://www.dur.ac.uk/physics/, and about the Durham Centre for Soft Matter at https://www.dur.ac.uk/soft.matter/
Informal enquiries are welcome and should please be directed
This post is fixed term for 24 months.
The post-holder is employed to work on research/a research project which will be led by another colleague. Whilst this means that the post-holder will not be carrying out independent research in his/her own right, the expectation is that they will contribute to the advancement of the project, through the development of their own research ideas/adaptation and development of research protocols.
Successful applicants will ideally be in post by September 2025.
Essential
The Requirements
Qualifications
- A good first degree in Physics, Mathematics or a related subject.
- A PhD (or be close to submission) in Physics, Mathematics or a related subject.
Experience
- Experience in conducting high quality academic research.
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career
- Research skills or potential at an international level.
- Excellent track record of research in active matter or in the direct numerical simulations of the continuum equations governing the mechanics of fluids and soft solids.
- Ability to design theoretical models and carry out appropriate analytical calculations to achieve the proposed objectives.
- Experience in numerical modelling.
- Ability to participate in research meetings to troubleshoot research problems and discuss the direction of research.
Skills
- Fluency in at least one scientific computer language (e.g., C, C++), with experience of writing programmes in this language.
- Excellent written communication skills in English and demonstrable ability to write material of a quality commensurate with publication in highly-ranked journals.
- Excellent oral communication skills in English, with demonstrable ability to present research papers at international conferences and communicate complex information to specialists and within the wider academic community.
- Ability to participate in research meetings to troubleshoot research problems and discuss the direction of research.
- Demonstrable ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, including participating in research meetings.
- Ability to work independently on own initiative and to deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Desirable
Experience
- Specific knowledge of yielding dynamics.
Contact Information
Department contact for academic-related enquiries
Professor Suzanne Fielding. Email
When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.
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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research in soft and active matter. Read recent publications from Prof. Suzanne Fielding and her team to understand their focus areas and methodologies. This will help you engage in meaningful discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former members of the research group or department. Reach out via academic social networks like ResearchGate or LinkedIn to gain insights about the work environment and expectations, which can give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, especially those related to fluid dynamics and numerical modelling. Be ready to explain how your skills align with the specific goals of the RheoYield project.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider attending relevant conferences or workshops in the field of soft matter physics. This not only enhances your knowledge but also provides opportunities to meet potential colleagues and mentors who could support your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate in Theory of Soft and Active Matter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in soft and active matter, fluid dynamics, and numerical modelling. Emphasise your publication record and any specific projects that align with the research focus of Prof. Suzanne Fielding.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the research project. Discuss how your background in Physics or Mathematics makes you a suitable candidate and mention any specific interests related to the project’s aims.
Highlight Research Skills: Clearly outline your research skills and experiences, particularly in theoretical modelling and analytical calculations. Mention any relevant software or programming languages you are proficient in, such as C or C++.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no grammatical errors and that your writing is clear and concise. This reflects your excellent written communication skills, which are essential for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Research
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in soft and active matter, particularly those related to yield stress fluids. Be prepared to discuss how your previous research aligns with the project goals and how you can contribute to the ongoing work.
✨Demonstrate Technical Skills
Highlight your experience with numerical modelling and theoretical model design. Be ready to provide examples of your programming skills, especially in languages like C or C++, and discuss any relevant projects where you've applied these skills.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Discussion
Since the role involves working closely with a team, think about how you can contribute to group discussions. Prepare to share your ideas on troubleshooting research problems and how you can support the project's direction through collaboration.
✨Showcase Communication Abilities
Your ability to communicate complex information clearly is crucial. Practice explaining your research in simple terms and be ready to discuss your publication record, focusing on how you've effectively communicated your findings in past presentations and papers.
