At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop numerical models and simulation tools for solving complex physical problems in metal additive manufacturing.
- Company: Qdot is an innovative start-up from the University of Oxford focused on sustainable UAV technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, EMI share options, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team making a real impact on climate change through cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: A degree in applied mathematics or related field with strong numerical methods expertise is essential.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with experts in a friendly, supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Qdot is a spin-out from the University of Oxford. Our mission is to combat the causes and effects of climate change by creating zero-emissions, sustainable UAVs for critical logistics applications including offshore and remote. Key to this mission is the development of its hybrid battery and fuel cell powertrain technology. We are based at Oxford Airport and currently have 13 employees.
What we offer you
- Salary: Competitive
- Working arrangements: Hybrid working, flexible working hours
- Benefits:
- EMI share options in fast growing start-up
- 25 days + bank holidays (+1 per year of service up to a maximum of +5)
- 5 days carried forward, used within 6 months
- Enhanced sick leave
- Enhanced paternity/maternity leave
- Salary sacrifice pension scheme +5% company contribution
- Up to ÂŁ400/year reimbursement of professional registration fees
- 2x salary life insurance
- Private virtual GP for immediate family
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Shopping discounts
- Visa sponsorship and costs covered
Culture:
At Qdot, you will be part of a friendly and welcoming team of passionate innovators, every single one making a real difference in the path towards the dream of clean, sustainable flight. We encourage healthy work-life balance by supporting flexible working hours and hybrid working, while also strengthening team bonds with company-wide social events. Every team member is kept informed about top-level strategy, and encouraged to have their say about where we go as a company.
Job summary
As a Numerical Methods Engineer, you will take a central role in developing numerical models and simulation tools to solve complex physical problems—particularly related to sintering and material deformation—governed by partial differential equations (PDEs). Your work will involve building discrete numerical solvers from first principles, validating simulation outputs, and converting these into reliable, reusable software modules—specifically applied to metal additive manufacturing processes, such as metal binder jetting, sintering and co-sintering.
This role requires strong mathematical modelling expertise, proficiency in MATLAB and Python, and a deep understanding of numerical methods for ODEs/PDEs. You’ll be responsible for advancing our current 2D sintering models into 3D, supporting simulations involving multiple interacting bodies, and contributing to the creation of user-ready computational tools. Candidates with backend programming experience in C++ or high-performance computing will have additional opportunities to optimize solver performance and scalability.
You’ll work closely with domain experts and experimentalists, playing a key part in the design and validation of next-generation materials simulation platforms.
Your responsibilities
- Develop and implement numerical solvers for PDE-based physical models for metal sintering.
- Extend existing 2D sintering models to 3D and multi-body configurations.
- Write clean, modular, and documented code primarily in MATLAB and Python.
- Translate research models into usable software tools for internal or external use.
- Validate and verify models against physical data or published benchmarks.
- Collaborate with R&D engineers, experimentalists, and external research groups.
Selection criteria
Essential
- University degree in applied mathematics, computer science, physics, materials or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of combined academic and industry experience.
- Strong background in numerical methods for ODEs/PDEs (e.g., finite element, finite difference, or finite volume methods).
- Proficiency in MATLAB and Python for numerical computing and algorithm development.
- Experience building or modifying custom simulation solvers from scratch.
- Familiarity with 3D geometries, meshing, and computational grids.
- Experience writing and implementing codes for parallel and high-performance computing.
- Understanding of physical processes such as sintering, heat transfer, diffusion, or mechanics of materials.
- Strong problem-solving ability and attention to mathematical rigor.
- Familiar with software development practices such as version control (e.g., Git) and modular coding.
Desirable
- Post-graduate university degree in applied mathematics, computer science, physics, materials or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of combined academic and industry experience.
- Experience with C++.
- Experience with multiphysics solvers or simulation frameworks (e.g., COMSOL, FEniCS, OpenFOAM).
- Experience with GUI development or integrating simulations into user-facing tools.
- Knowledge of numerical stability and convergence analysis techniques.
- Knowledge of metal additive manufacturing processes, particularly design for manufacturing.
Numerical Methods Engineer employer: Qdot Technology
Contact Detail:
Qdot Technology Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Numerical Methods Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific numerical methods mentioned in the job description, such as finite element and finite difference methods. Being able to discuss these techniques confidently during an interview will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase any relevant projects or experiences where you've developed numerical solvers or worked with MATLAB and Python. Be prepared to explain your thought process and the challenges you faced, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of numerical methods and additive manufacturing. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with others who may have insights into Qdot or similar companies, which could give you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Qdot's mission and recent developments in sustainable UAV technology. Being knowledgeable about their work and expressing genuine interest in their goals during your interview can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Numerical Methods Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with numerical methods, MATLAB, and Python. Include specific projects or roles where you've developed numerical solvers or worked on related simulations.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for sustainable technology and how your skills align with Qdot's mission. Mention any relevant experience in metal additive manufacturing or similar fields.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have worked on projects involving PDEs, sintering, or high-performance computing, be sure to detail these in your application. Use clear examples to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and technical expertise.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Since the role involves working closely with R&D engineers and experimentalists, emphasise your teamwork and communication skills. Provide examples of successful collaborations in your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Qdot Technology
✨Brush Up on Numerical Methods
Make sure you have a solid understanding of numerical methods for ODEs and PDEs. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques like finite element or finite difference methods, as these will be crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Coding Skills
Since proficiency in MATLAB and Python is essential, be ready to demonstrate your coding abilities. You might be asked to solve a problem or explain your approach to building simulation solvers.
✨Understand the Physical Processes
Familiarise yourself with the physical processes related to sintering and material deformation. Being able to discuss these concepts will show your depth of knowledge and how it applies to the role.
✨Prepare Questions About Collaboration
As the role involves working closely with R&D engineers and experimentalists, prepare thoughtful questions about team dynamics and collaboration. This shows your interest in being a part of their innovative environment.