At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct cutting-edge research in robust feedback control theory for nonlinear systems.
- Company: Join The University of Manchester, a leading institution in engineering and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fantastic pension scheme, health services, generous leave, and local discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements may be considered; equal opportunities employer.
- Why this job: Build your research credentials and contribute to impactful projects in control theory.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge in control theory, functional analysis, and input-output methods required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to conduct research in fundamental robust feedback control theory via input-output methods under the supervision of Prof. Alexander Lanzon, Chair in Control Engineering at the University of Manchester and Head of Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. This PDRA post will deliver the objectives of a research grant awarded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) entitled \"Input-restricted robust feedback control of nonlinear dynamical systems\".
The research involves developing fundamental robust feedback control theory for nonlinear dynamical systems using input-output operator theory and graph separation theory. Excellent knowledge of input-output dissipativity theory, input-output passivity theory, IQC theory, graph separation theory, and/or operator theory (e.g. manipulation of norms and inner-products) will be a strong asset. The recruited PDRA will have a solid understanding of feedback stability analysis and control theory using input-output approaches with strong functional analysis abilities and/or mathematical systems theory skills. You will also have demonstrable potential for performing leading-edge control theory research at an international level.
The input-output approach in control theory describes (linear and nonlinear) dynamical systems as operators mapping an input to an output. Feedback stability in this input-output framework means that endogenous signals around the feedback loop are well-behaved for all exogenous inputs - in an input space - injected into the feedback loop. Influential input-output feedback stability results which can be applied to nonlinear systems to guarantee robust feedback stability include the classical small-gain, input-output passivity, input-output dissipativity, and absolute stability criteria, as well as more modern input-output stability approaches such as the Integral Quadratic Constraint framework and dynamic dissipativity. In this project, you will create fundamental analysis and control theory for input-restricted feedback stability.
You will be expected to publish outstanding research in internationally leading journals such as IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control and Automatica. This is an ideal opportunity if you are interested in building outstanding research credentials which can help you secure a future academic career.
What you will get in return:
- Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
- Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
- Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
- Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers
Our University is positive about flexible working - you can find out more here
Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Any CV\'s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Professor Alexander Lanzon
Email: Alexander.Lanzon@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
https://jobseekersupport.jobtrain.co.uk/support/home
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Research Associate in Robust Feedback Control Theory in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of robust feedback control theory. With access to outstanding research facilities, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, staff are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to cutting-edge research. The university's inclusive environment and flexible working arrangements make it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in academia.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Robust Feedback Control Theory in Manchester
✨Get Involved in Control Systems Communities
Dive into control systems forums and relevant LinkedIn groups to showcase your expertise. Engage in discussions, answer questions, and share your knowledge—this can help us get noticed by potential employers looking for someone just like you!
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Join conferences or workshops specifically tailored to control systems engineering, like the IEEE conference. These events are goldmines for networking with industry leaders and might just lead us to that perfect role at The University of Manchester.
✨Get Practical Experience Through Projects
Start or contribute to projects that highlight your control systems skills. Whether it’s a simulated environment or real-world application, having tangible results will give us a huge edge when chatting with The University of Manchester.
✨Choose Job Boards Wisely
Focus on niche job boards that specialise in engineering roles. Channels like Engineers.co or similar can help ensure that we’re not only applying to random jobs but targeting positions that align perfectly with our control systems engineering skills!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Robust Feedback Control Theory in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Technical Skills:When applying for the Research Associate in Robust Feedback Control Theory role, make sure to showcase your technical expertise in control systems. Be specific about the software and programming languages you’ve worked with—mention anything from MATLAB to PLC programming. This will help us see your proficiency in the tools that are essential for the job.
Quantify Your Achievements:In the engineering world, numbers speak volumes! Use your CV to quantify your achievements—whether it’s a percentage improvement in system efficiency or successful project completions under budget. This will not only make your application stand out but also showcase your problem-solving capabilities to us.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Don’t hesitate to get personal in your cover letter! Talk about why you’re passionate about control systems engineering and how your previous experiences have prepared you for this role at The University of Manchester. We want to see your genuine interest and motivation to contribute to our projects.
Professional Documentation:For a full-time role, ensure that your application documents are professional and well-structured. Include a clear CV format and cover letter that highlights key projects or systems you've worked on. Don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications or training that would make you a valuable addition to us at The University of Manchester.
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Brush Up on Control Systems Concepts
Make sure we're up to speed with control systems theory—think stability analysis, PID tuning, and state-space representation. Revising these fundamentals will help us answer technical questions more confidently and demonstrate our expertise during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Simulation Tools
Get hands-on with popular simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink or LabVIEW. A lot of interviews might include technical assessments or practical tasks to gauge our understanding of system modelling and control design using these tools, so being proficient could really set us apart.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios
We should expect scenario-based questions where we'll have to solve real-world control system challenges. Practising how to approach problems logically and articulately will help us show our analytical thinking to the interviewer at The University of Manchester.
✨Show Your Passion for Engineering
As this role is full-time, it's crucial we convey our genuine enthusiasm for control systems engineering. Sharing personal projects or experiences where we tackled interesting engineering tasks can illustrate our commitment and eagerness to contribute to the team at The University of Manchester.
