Postdoctoral Research Position in Mathematics, University of Oxford

Overview

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral research position, funded by the John Fell Fund (Oxford University Press) and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Global Research Partnership (GRP), to work with Dr Dominic Vella at the Oxford Centre for Collaborative Applied Mathematics (OCCAM) in the Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford. This position is available from 1 January 2012 and is for a duration of two years.

As gadgets get smaller and, at the same time, more complex, the necessity for developing small-scale components with both mechanical and electrical functionality increases. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are therefore becoming ubiquitous in new technologies. However, understanding the properties of these devices, as well as the practicalities of how to make them, often involves combinations of physical effects that are unfamiliar at the much larger scale of everyday life. For example, in MEMS devices surface tension dominates the force of gravity and is even strong enough to bend components and cause them to stick to one another. The coupling between elasticity and capillarity (surface tension) is a common theme in these technological applications.

Salary Range: Starting salary £29,099 - £30,870
Appointment Term: 24 months fixed term

This project will build a theoretical framework for the study of such elasto-capillary systems focusing particularly on the important role of dynamic effects (specifically fluid flow). The project will develop our understanding of a new class of ‘elasto-capillary’ flows and the special features that they exhibit as well as providing theoretically based design criteria to reduce the risk of surface tension damage to MEMS devices. The project involves collaboration with the experimental group of Prof. Ho-Young Kim, a mechanical engineer at Seoul National University.

The successful candidate will demonstrate expertise in applied mathematics, continuum mechanics, numerical analysis and scientific computing, an ability to communicate, and the ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team.

Applicants should read the job description document before writing their application. You will be required to upload a curriculum vitae, a covering letter explaining your suitability for the position and how you meet the selection criteria, and the name and address of two referees as part of your online application. In addition candidates should arrange for the two letters of references to be sent directly to the Administrative Assistant, Mathematical Institute, 24-29 St.Giles', Oxford, OX1 3LB email: (vacancies@maths.ox.ac.uk) by the closing date (a letter by email is sufficient).

Please direct informal enquiries to the Administrative Assistant (email: vacancies@maths.ox.ac.uk) quoting vacancy reference 100822.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. To apply for this role and for further details, including a job description and selection criteria, please click on the link below

https://www.recruit.ox.ac.uk/pls/hrisliverecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.j...

Only applications received before 12:00 noon UK time on Thursday 8th September 2011 can be considered.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

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