At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop numerical models and simulation tools for complex physical problems in metal additive manufacturing.
- Company: Join Qdot, a dynamic spin-out from Oxford University focused on sustainable UAV technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, EMI share options, and generous leave policies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change while collaborating with passionate innovators in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Degree in applied mathematics or related field; 3+ years experience in numerical methods and programming.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and involvement in cutting-edge research.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 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 and simulation tools mentioned in the job description. Understanding finite element, finite difference, and finite volume methods will give you a solid foundation to discuss during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your experience with MATLAB and Python by preparing examples of past projects where you've developed numerical solvers or simulation tools. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of materials science and numerical methods. Engaging with domain experts can provide insights into current trends and challenges, which you can reference in your conversations with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving approach in detail. Be ready to explain how you tackle complex physical problems, particularly those related to sintering and material deformation, as this will demonstrate your analytical skills and fit for the role.
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 developed numerical solvers or worked on related simulations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for combating climate change through technology. Mention how your skills align with Qdot's mission and the specific responsibilities of the Numerical Methods Engineer role.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you've worked on projects involving ODEs/PDEs or metal additive manufacturing, be sure to detail these in your application. Highlight any experience with 3D modelling or high-performance computing as well.
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, as this is crucial for the role. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques like finite element or finite difference methods and how you've applied them in past projects.
✨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 on the spot or explain your approach to writing clean, modular code. Bring examples of your previous work if possible.
✨Understand the Application Context
Familiarise yourself with metal additive manufacturing processes and the physical principles behind sintering and material deformation. Being able to relate your technical skills to real-world applications will impress the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
As the role involves working closely with R&D engineers and experimentalists, think about examples from your experience where collaboration was key to success. Highlight your communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.