Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton
Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus)

Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton

Southampton Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
University of South Hampton

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the development of models for plant acoustic emissions and collaborate on experimental research.
  • Company: Join a dynamic team at the University of Southampton, renowned for interdisciplinary research.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding plant acoustics through innovative modelling techniques.
  • Qualifications: PhD or near completion in relevant fields with strong computational modelling skills.
  • Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusivity in a collaborative research setting.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

You will join an interdisciplinary project delivered through a collaboration between the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, the School of Biological Sciences, and Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton. The project will deliver an integrated understanding of plant acoustic emission generation and reception, including transmission pathways through plant tissues and (where relevant) soil. The modelling work will be tightly coupled to experimental campaigns and will use image-derived structures (including XCT images where available) to develop mechanistic, validated mathematical multiscale models. We are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate with a modelling background to lead development of the project’s multiphysics modelling framework.

Key accountabilities / duties

  • Develop models describing acoustic emission generation and reception/sensitivity in plants, aligned with experimental observations.
  • Build image-informed model geometries and structures (e.g., using XCT datasets available within the team) and develop appropriate multiscale representations.
  • Implement and run multiphysics simulations (e.g., vibroacoustics/wave propagation in complex media; soil–plant coupling where relevant), including parameter studies and sensitivity analyses.
  • Work iteratively with experimental colleagues to guide measurement design, interpret results and perform model validation.
  • Contribute to reproducible modelling workflows (version control, documentation, shareable code and outputs) and participate in production of open research outputs.
  • Support and lead preparation of publications, presentations and final project deliverables.

Candidate requirements

  • PhD (or near completion) or equivalent qualifications and experience in Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Acoustics, Computational Science or a closely related discipline.
  • Strong experience in numerical/computational modelling (e.g., FEM/multiphysics, wave propagation, computational mechanics).
  • Evidence of scientific programming and good software/reproducibility practice (e.g., Python/MATLAB/C++ and/or established modelling platforms).
  • Familiarity with asymptotic and multiscale mathematical analysis methods to ground proof numerical simulations.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work across disciplinary boundaries.
  • Experience with image-based modelling workflows (CT/XCT segmentation-to-mesh pipelines).
  • Experience with inverse problems, uncertainty quantification, or modelling of biological tissues/porous media.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity. Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date.

Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton employer: University of South Hampton

The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration across disciplines. As a Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics, you will have access to cutting-edge resources and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research while benefiting from professional development programmes that support your career growth. Located in a dynamic academic environment, you will be part of a community that values innovation and encourages open research practices.
University of South Hampton

Contact Detail:

University of South Hampton Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the University of Southampton. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Research Fellow position.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your modelling skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with numerical modelling and how it relates to plant acoustics. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your projects! If you've worked on relevant modelling frameworks or simulations, make sure to highlight these in discussions. We love seeing practical applications of your skills, especially if they relate to the job description.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are proactive and engaged.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton

Numerical Modelling
Computational Modelling
FEM (Finite Element Method)
Multiphysics Simulations
Wave Propagation
Scientific Programming
Python
MATLAB
C++
Image-Based Modelling Workflows
CT/XCT Segmentation
Multiscale Mathematical Analysis
Uncertainty Quantification
Communication Skills
Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Fellow position. Highlight your modelling experience and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those related to plant acoustics or multiphysics simulations.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific skills that align with the job description, like your experience in numerical modelling or scientific programming. Show us your passion for the project!

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be working across different disciplines, it's crucial to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Include examples of how you've collaborated with others in past projects or how you've presented complex ideas clearly.

Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.

How to prepare for a job interview at University of South Hampton

✨Know Your Models Inside Out

Make sure you can discuss your previous modelling work in detail. Be prepared to explain the methodologies you used, particularly in numerical/computational modelling, and how they relate to the acoustic emission generation and reception in plants.

✨Showcase Your Programming Skills

Since strong programming skills are essential for this role, be ready to talk about your experience with Python, MATLAB, or C++. Bring examples of your code or projects that demonstrate your ability to implement multiphysics simulations and maintain reproducible workflows.

✨Communicate Across Disciplines

This position requires collaboration with experimental colleagues, so highlight your communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with teams from different disciplines and how you’ve contributed to guiding measurement design or interpreting results.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect technical questions related to wave propagation, soil-plant coupling, and multiscale mathematical analysis methods. Brush up on these topics and think about how you can relate them to the project’s goals, showing your understanding of both theory and practical application.

Research Fellow in Plant Acoustics (modelling-focus) in Southampton
University of South Hampton
Location: Southampton

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