Postdoctoral Research Assistant
Salary
£38,674 - £46,913 per annum
Closing date
Aug 22, 2025 12:00PM
Description
About the roleNon-equilibrium expanding flows are generated when shocked gas crosses expansion waves, e.g. at the rear of hypersonic vehicles or in ground-based facilities. The effect of the expansion is to reduce the frequency of collisions, so that chemical and thermal relaxation processes are slowed down. There are indications that commonly accepted rate constants for non-equilibrium atmospheric plasmas are inaccurate and do not produce the correct compositions and energy distributions of expanding flows.
The proposed research aims to make a step change in domestic and international knowledge and tools for non-equilibrium flows for hypersonic vehicles. The research will provide unique and high-quality experimental data for expanding high temperature flows. Alongside this, the proposal will develop novel tools which will allow efficient flow modelling tools for other researchers to explore higher fidelity thermochemistry modelling.
The main responsibilities of the post will be
- Develop original numerical methods for facility simulation in presence of expansion waves
- Demonstrate improved estimates of rate constants for two-temperature models
- Contribute to the supervision of graduate students working on the project
- Contribute to the preparation of academic publications.
- Contribute to code development efforts in the group at large
About you
The applicant should hold or be near the completion of doctoral studies into hypersonic flows or numerical methods or hold equivalent professional experience.
The ideal applicant should have a clear track record in the development of numerical models for hypersonic flows and a clear track record in the interpretation of experimental data from ground based hypersonic facilities and their modelling implications. The applicant should be well versed in structured programming, in the maintenance of numerical codes and in the training of new users, such as graduate students. A proven track record of collaborative publications and engagement with a diverse research group is highly desirable.
What we offer
At the university of Oxford your happiness and wellbeing at work is important to us. We have a number of generous benefits including 38 days' annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays and fixed closure days), generous pension schemes and free access to the Oxford colleges. The other benefits include:
- Travel - We have several travel schemes available for staff which promote sustainable modes of transport.
- Family friendly benefits - We aim to be a family-friendly employer and offer a range of flexible working options. We have some of the most generous family leave provision in the Higher Education.
- Sports – We have several schemes to help you stay fit and healthy, including discounted membership of the university sports centre on the Iffley Road
- Personal and professional development - We actively encourage all staff to participate in planning their personal and professional development and provide a broad range of opportunities to enable them to reach their full potential.
- University club - All staff are entitled to free membership of the University Club. It offers social and hospitality facilities, a small gym and exercise classes.
- Staff discounts - University staff can access shopping discounts in several ways; by purchasing a TOTUM card, by showing an employee pass in selected local stores, or online by using any of the listed discount codes
- Childcare services - We offer excellent childcare services including five University nurseries as well as University-supported places at other local private nurseries.
How to apply
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via our e-recruitment system and should include the covering letter/supporting statement (describing how you meet the criteria), a CV, and names of two academic references. A statement of research interests (max 2 pages).
The position is a full-time fixed term post available for 18 months.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 22 August 2025.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to Luca Di Mare: luca.dimare@eng.ox.ac.uk
For more information about working at the Department, see
www.eng.ox.ac.uk/about/work-with-us/
The University of Oxford is committed to equality and valuing diversity. All applicants will be judged on merit, according to the selection criteria.
The Department holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting women in Science, Engineering and Technology.
Contact name
Luca Di Mare
Contact email
luca.dimare@eng.ox.ac.uk
The job description is available via the Apply Now button