Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Oxford, UK

Overview

• Designation: Postdoctoral Research Associate / Research Assistant (depending on PhD status)
• Location: Department of Engineering Science, Central Oxford, United Kingdom
• Last Date for Apply: September 10, 2026, at 12:00 PM (Midday)

Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Oxford, UK

Key Details at a Glance

Research Area

Experimental Materials Engineering (Mechanical testing of metals, hydrogen embrittlement)

The project focuses on characterising the susceptibility of metals to hydrogen embrittlement. This phenomenon poses a significant threat to hydrogen energy infrastructure and causes structural integrity challenges across the transport, defence, marine, and construction sectors.

Job Description

As a member of Prof. Emilio Martinez-Paneda’s research group, you will carry out cutting-edge experimental tasks using world-class facilities. Responsibilities include:

• Conducting mechanical testing, including fracture and fatigue.
• Performing advanced materials characterisation using techniques like SEM and EBSD.
• Executing hydrogen charging, permeation, and desorption tests.
• Capitalising on potential opportunities to access synchrotron facilities.
• Participating in active group collaborations, writing high-impact journal publications, and liaising with academic collaborators and sponsors.

Eligibility & Qualification

• Education: You must have obtained, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.(Note: Candidates close to finishing their degree may be offered a Grade 6 position as a Research Assistant with a commensurate reduction in responsibilities until the PhD is awarded).
• Experience Requirements: You should have demonstrated experience in at least one of the following areas:
  • Mechanical testing
  • Environmentally assisted fracture testing
  • Temperature-programmed hydrogen desorption
  • Materials characterisation
  • Hydrogen permeation
  • Coupled deformation-diffusion modelling

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the university portal. To apply, click the official application link on the Job Detail Page.

You will be required to upload the following documents:

1. A Covering Letter / Supporting Statement (including a brief statement of research interests describing how your past experience and future plans align with this position).
2. A comprehensive CV.
3. Contact details for two referees.

Last date to apply

Sep 10, 2026

Link